Ancient music refers to the musical traditions and practices from early civilizations, often dating back thousands of years. This includes the music of cultures such as the Sumerians, Egyptians, and Greeks. Instruments like the lyre, flute, and drums were commonly used, and music played a significant role in religious ceremonies, celebrations, and storytelling. The study of ancient music often relies on artifacts, written records, and archaeological findings. For example, the Hurrian Hymn No. 6, one of the oldest known pieces of music, was discovered in Ugarit and dates back to around 1400 BCE. These early musical forms laid the foundation for many modern musical traditions.