Israeli music, much like Israeli society as a whole, is a tapestry of multiple influences, cultures and geographic origins.
Since the beginning of Zionism’s footprint in the land of Eretz Yisrael, music has been a significant element of early Zionism, Jewish growth in the period before the state, and then in Israeli culture since 1948. Early folk songs of the Halutzim (pioneers), classical music of the Palestine Orchestra (now the Israeli Philharmonic Orchestra), Mizrahi music made popular in the 1970s, rock and roll, hip-hop and jazz are just some of the many pieces of Israeli music. Styles and genres reflect the origins of Jewish immigrants to Israel, Israel’s experiences as a state, and then cross-pollination with cultural combinations and influences from elsewhere. Artists such as David Broza, Shalom Hanoch, Arik Einstein, Zohar Argov, Naomi Shemer, Ha’dag Nahash and Muki convey the depth and complexity of Israel through their music. These songs act as historical and social benchmarks as well as compasses, telling the unique stories of Israel and its history, society, culture, and population.