Archaeologists working at the Hohle Fels Cave dig in the Ach Valley, 140 km west of Munich Germany, have discovered clear evidence that music was a part of Paleolithic life, when modern humans colonized Europe over 35,000 years ago.

A nearly complete bone flute in 12 pieces, closely resembling a modern-day flute, was unearthed in September 2008.  The original instrument was 21.8 cm long, with a diameter of  8 mm, and there are 5 existing finger holes. There are two V-shaped notches in one end of the instrument, through which it is believed the player blew.  The bottom of the flute was not found.  It was created by carving the wing bone of a griffon vulture, likely with a stone tool .  Pieces of three other flutes carved from mammoth tusks have also been discovered nearby.  Most of these flute pieces were found among other artifacts, including burnt animal remains, suggesting that they were used in a social setting.

The cave at Hohle Fels has been the site of many interesting discoveries, as the oldest known carved human figure was also found here, only 70 cm from the location of this flute.

It is believed that the humans leaving these artifacts behind came to the area as a result of their migration through the Danube Corridor.  In addition to the presence of music in their culture as early as 35,00 years ago, there was also the emergence of figurative art, and other innovations and new modes of expression, including symbolic artifacts, personal ornamentation and alcohol.  The existence of music in their culture, which was apparently wide-spread given the number of instruments discovered, would seem to indicate a maturing social environment, featuring more complex communication and a more sophisticated creative atmosphere.

These finds will go on display in a museum in the German city of Stuttgart.  The archaeologists’ findings were originally published in the science journal Nature.