The main difference between Eastern and Western music lies in their cultural, historical, and theoretical foundations, resulting in distinct musical styles, scales, tonal systems, and approaches to melody, rhythm, and harmony.

Here's a summary of some key differences:

1. Tonal Systems and Scales:

   • Western Music:

     
     

     Western music predominantly uses the 12-tone equal temperament system, dividing the octave into 12 equal semitones. It relies on major and minor scales and emphasizes harmonic progressions and chord structures.

   
   

   • Eastern Music:

     
     

     Eastern music traditions, such as Indian classical music and Middle Eastern music, often employ different tuning systems that can include microtonal intervals. These systems may have scales with more than 12 notes per octave, and they may use modes or scales unique to their traditions.

   
   

2. Harmony vs. Melody:

   • Western Music:

     
     

     Western music tends to emphasize harmony, with a focus on chord progressions and the interaction between different voices or instruments. Melodies often move within the framework of established harmonies.

   
   

   • Eastern Music:

     
     

     Eastern music often prioritizes melody over harmony. It places great importance on intricate and expressive melodic lines, ornamentation, and improvisation. Harmony may play a secondary or different role in many Eastern music traditions.

   
   

3. Rhythmic Complexity:

   • Western Music:

     
     

     Western music generally uses regular and symmetrical rhythmic patterns based on divisions of time, such as 4/4, 3/4, or 6/8 time signatures.

   
   

   • Eastern Music:

     
     

     Eastern music often features complex and asymmetrical rhythmic patterns. It places an emphasis on intricate and varied rhythmic structures, with rhythmic cycles and patterns that can be highly sophisticated.

   
   

4. Instrumentation and Timbre:

   • Western Music:

     
     

     Western classical music often features orchestral instruments, pianos, and a wide variety of instruments with standardized tuning. Timbre and instrumentation can vary widely in different Western music genres.

   
   

   • Eastern Music:

     
     

     Eastern music utilizes a diverse range of traditional instruments that contribute to its distinctive timbres. These instruments may include sitar, tabla, oud, qanun, and many others, depending on the region and tradition.

   
   

5. Notation Systems:

   • Western Music:

     
     

     Western music uses a standard staff notation system with clefs, notes, and key signatures.

   
   

   • Eastern Music:

     
     

     Eastern music often uses unique notation systems tailored to its specific traditions, and oral transmission and improvisation are significant components of learning and performing.

   
   

6. Cultural and Historical Influences:

   • Western Music:

     
     

     Western music has been influenced by Greco-Roman, Judeo-Christian, and European traditions, among others.

   
   

   • Eastern Music:

     
     

     Eastern music reflects the cultural, religious, and historical influences of regions such as India, the Middle East, and Asia.

It's important to note that these differences are generalizations.

There is considerable diversity within both Eastern and Western music traditions.

Additionally, contemporary music often incorporates elements from both traditions, leading to a fusion of styles and approaches.