Oral traditions: In many early cultures, music was passed down orally from generation to generation. This means that the music was constantly changing and evolving, and there is no definitive record of what it sounded like at any given time.
Changes over time: The music of early cultures has changed significantly over time. This is due to a variety of factors, such as changes in language, culture, and musical instruments. As a result, it is difficult to know exactly what the music of early cultures sounded like.
Limited archaeological evidence: Archaeological evidence can provide some insights into the music of early cultures. For example, archaeologists have found musical instruments, such as flutes and drums, that date back thousands of years. However, this evidence is often fragmentary and incomplete, and it can be difficult to interpret how these instruments were used to make music.
Diverse musical traditions: There were many different musical traditions in early cultures, and each tradition had its own unique characteristics. This makes it difficult to generalize about the music of early cultures, as there was no single, unified musical tradition.
Despite these challenges, scholars have been able to learn a great deal about the music of early cultures. By studying oral traditions, archaeological evidence, and other sources, scholars have been able to gain insights into the role that music played in early societies and the ways in which it was used.