Download Greek music

Greek Music
*Music
Music was a huge part of Ancient greek life. It was an important part in religious festivals,
marriage and funeral rites, and banquet gatherings. Our knowledge of music from Ancient
Greece comes from actual fragments of musical scores, literary references, and the remains of
musical instruments.
*The Lyre
It was the most widely used and popular string instrument in Ancient Greece.
Not only professionals could play it. The Lyre was not used in outdoor performances. It was the
symbol of Apollo. It was primarily used in the education of young people. The Lyre could be
categorized as the national instrument of Ancient Greece. According to legend, it was invented
by the god Hermes.
* Kithara
It was a more complicated version of the Lyre. It was played with a plectrum. The Kithara was
used by professional musicians. It was used in musical contests.
*Apollo and the Muses
Apollo is the god of poetry, the sun, prophecy and music. He was a healer and also liked to
restore order. Apollo is often shown with the Lyre or Kithara. According to legend the Lyre was
invented by Hermes, Apollo’s half brother. Hermes gave the Lyre to Apollo in exchange for
some cattle. Apollo is closely associated with nine goddesses called the Muses. The Muses
were believed to inspire and guide people’s creative and intellectual activities. Each of the
Muses were responsible for a particular art such as music, dance or poetry.