The music of the State of Israel incorporates a variety of musical traditions. Since the First Aliyah of Jews to Palestine in the 1880s, distinct local styles have developed alongside the adoption of international genres, including classical, jazz, pop, and rock. Since the 1960s, Israeli music has become increasingly diverse, expanding into rock, folk, and jazz. Some of the world's top classical musicians are Israeli or of Israeli origin, and compositions by Israeli composers have been performed by orchestras worldwide.
From the earliest days, music has played a central role in the cultural life of the state. Hebrew songs and public singalongs (shira b'tzibur) were promoted on a national level and enjoyed institutional support. Singalongs became a popular social activity, contributing to the formation of Israeli identity. The use of music as a means of fostering Israeli nationalism and culture has continued throughout the years. Jewish immigrants from Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and other regions brought with them diverse musical traditions, which blended over time with the local music of Palestine, influencing the evolution of a distinct Israeli musical style.
