Variety of Instruments. The Egyptians used percussion, wind, and stringed instruments. Some of these instruments were imported from the Near East, while others were indigenous to Egypt. The simplest percussion instrument was two hands clapping. The Egyptians depicted singers clapping in Old Kingdom (circa 2675-2130 B.C.E.) tomb scenes, but the sound could be amplified by use of instruments they called "Two Hands," which were made from two pieces of curving ivory or bone with the image of Hathor or of hands carved at their ends. A smaller version of these instruments resembles castanets. A related instrument is the menat, which was also associated with the goddess Hathor. This instrument was worn around the neck like jewelry. All these instruments were in use during the Old Kingdom and later.

Percussion. Drums resembled a variety of shapes including barrels, goblets, and circles. From the...