Published
Hurrian Hymn To Nikkal / No. 6
The cuneiform tablet (pictured above) on which this hymn was written dates from approximately 1200-50 B.C.E, although some now date them as early as 1400 B.C.E. There have been at least five major attempts to render the notation on this tablet into modern musical notation, each with different results. I chose Richard J. Dumbrill’s version due to its musical appeal rather than the likelihood of its correctness.
“A Quick Word on Copyright” (11/12/20):
I have received several questions about the copyright of this piece over the years. Although the cuneiform tablets themselves do not fall under copyright for obvious reasons, Dumbrill’s transcription does; furthermore, although I used this score as a foundation, this particular audio recording is covered under “automatic copyright.” Put simply, “I, myself, created the work and committed it to a form of media; therefore, I have de facto copyright.”
That being said, I am happy to allow people to use this recording for whatever purposes they choose. A credit would be nice, but it’s not something I’m too picky about; I’m just flattered that people enjoy it! Additionally, I’m interested to see what people do with it, so please send me a copy of your finished product if you can.
Score: download pdf