Is the drum oldest musical instrument?

While it's difficult to pinpoint the exact origin of musical instruments, it's widely believed that the drum is among the oldest musical instruments. The earliest evidence of drums dates back to the Neolithic period, around 5000 BCE, when stretched animal skin was used to cover pottery vessels, hollow logs, or other circular frames to produce sound. Drum-like instruments have also been discovered in ancient cave paintings and prehistoric sites. Over time, drums have evolved in design, size, and complexity, becoming fundamental instruments in various cultures across the globe.