The Birth of Music

We can’t know how neolithic people made music – possibly not enjoying raves in the caves.

But Jude Rogers has fun speculating how the universal instinct for something like music played out in chambers and stone circles back in the mists of time in ways that link to our own.

She’s joined in the West Kennet Long Barrow burial chamber by musicians and archaeologists who make some exceptional sounds. We also hear from musician Mark “Spaceship” Williamson at work in a long barrow in Anglesey and Jem Finer tells the story of the Gurdy Stone.

Produced by Victoria Ferran

Broadcast: 19th November 2024 on BBC Radio 4