Abstract: Do You Hear What I Hear? Music Culture in Ancient Israel

Lecturer: Theodore W. Burgh

This lecture explores music culture in ancient Israel with emphasis on Iron Age Israel, the time known to many as the “biblical period,” (1200-586 BCE). The talk employs a PPT presentation that shows examples of the types of instruments used in Israel and other cultures throughout the Near East (e.g., remains of instruments, figurines, etc.). There are also musical clip(s) played when applicable, as well as live musical demonstration(s) pertaining to the interpretation of musical terminology and other musical ideas. In sum, the lecture gives perspectives of the importance, use, and development of music in ancient Israelite culture and the Near East.