Prehistoric music (previously
primitive music) is a term in the
history of music for all
music produced in
preliterate cultures (
prehistory), beginning somewhere in very late
geological history. Prehistoric music is followed by
ancient music in different parts of the world, but still exists in isolated areas. However, it is more common to refer to the "prehistoric" music which still survives as
folk, indigenous or traditional music. Prehistoric music is studied alongside other periods within
music archaeology.