Artifacts on show embody rich cultural information about the evolution of rituals and ceremonies in accordance to social hierarchy, the arts and crafts and shared beliefs.

Danao, a bronzeware percussion instrument dated to the Shang Dynasty on show.

The neolithic Jiahu bone flute on show.

The Sound of Harmony now on at the National Museum of China examines the roles of music in state activities, public education and exchanges between ancient China and other civilizations.

The Sound of Harmony now on at the National Museum of China examines the roles of music in state activities, public education and exchanges between ancient China and other civilizations.

The Sound of Harmony now on at the National Museum of China examines the roles of music in state activities, public education and exchanges between ancient China and other civilizations.

The Sound of Harmony now on at the National Museum of China examines the roles of music in state activities, public education and exchanges between ancient China and other civilizations.

The Sound of Harmony now on at the National Museum of China examines the roles of music in state activities, public education and exchanges between ancient China and other civilizations.

The Sound of Harmony now on at the National Museum of China examines the roles of music in state activities, public education and exchanges between ancient China and other civilizations.

The Sound of Harmony shows more than 200 artifacts from the National Museum's collection and also on loan from other cultural institutions.

A six-century ceramic bottle which depicts people dancing and singing on a banquet. (Photo: China Daily)

An archaic bronzeware instrument on show.