What is it about song that brings communities together, in harmony and protest? Why do parents feel compelled to sing to their new-borns? How can an activity that helps to embed languages and maths formulae also be used to rehabilitate Long Covid sufferers? Singing is at the root of what it is to be human. Acclaimed music therapist, teacher and performer Julia Hollander charts our love of song from cradle to grave, from lullabies to songs for the dying. With some (voluntary!) audience participation.

Julia Hollander is a singing therapist, teacher and performer. She lives and works in Oxford.