The music of oratory.

Generally considered the greatest orator of the 20th century, Churchill had an ear for the music of speech. His rhetorical phrasing had much in common with this art form. In order to understand him better, we must appreciate his love of music. A programme last night on Radio 4 helped us in this endeavour in - Churchill's Secret Cabinet introduced by the historian Andrew Roberts. It gave us an insight into his various loves. The singer of the musical hall - Sir Harry Lauder (1870-1950) was a particular favourite. His song - Keep right on to the end of the road - being near the top. Churchill knew how to touch the emotions of the British people in their darkest hour, by the use of his voice. When you listen to his speeches even today, they make the hairs of the back of the head stand up. This knowledge about him has only recently come to light, with the discovery of the contents of his music cabinet that is now at Churchill College, Cambridge. In one recording of Churchill talking at a lunch in May 1952, when he was prime minister to Tax Inspectors - he is jocular and very funny in a way that is new to many of us. Do listen to this enthralling programme, you won't be disappointed.