Music Archaeology

The study of ancient music and sound-related activities is an interdisciplinary field which has become increasingly popular in recent years amongst scholars from around the world. A brief survey of music archaeological papers that have been presented at the SAA annual meetings during recent years, demonstrates the potential for research in this discipline. However, researchers are commonly spread across general sessions often reflecting the geography of their study area instead of the topic of their papers. In addition to presenting individual research, this symposium brings together scholars who are interested in archaeomusicology so that they can collaborate on new ideas, discuss issues with current research, and explore new avenues in the archaeological study of music/sound. Papers will encompass various aspects of ancient music which includes (and is not limited to) archaeologically recovered music instruments, music-related iconography, performance, and dance.