Briefing: A captive chimp's instrumental performances hint at the evolution of vocal externalization

In February 2023, Ayumu, a chimpanzee residing at Kyoto University's EHUB, engaged in a spontaneous musical performance, which involved manipulating his environment.

This incident raises important considerations regarding the architecture of vocalization and its evolutionary implications, particularly in relation to human vocal capabilities.

The performance highlights the need for further research into the systems of communication and expression in primates, potentially bridging gaps in our understanding of human vocal evolution.