Ancient Roman Music

Ancient Roman music played an important role in religious ceremonies, public entertainment, and daily life within the Roman Empire. Music accompanied festivals, theatrical performances, gladiatorial games, and military events. Roman musicians used a variety of instruments, including the lyre, cithara, tibia (a type of flute), and brass instruments such as the cornu and tuba. Music was often influenced by Greek traditions but adapted to Roman tastes and rituals. Although little written music survives, visual art and texts show that music helped express power, celebration, and emotion, strengthening social bonds and enhancing public spectacles across Roman society.