Oldest audio recording in existence streams online

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The oldest ever audio recording in existence is now available to stream online.

Originally recorded in St Louis on a sheet of tin foil on a phonograph designed by Thomas Edison in 1878, it’s the first time the mass public has been able to hear the 70 second clip.

Experts had been working hard to digitalise the reel without damaging the recording over the past few years.

“In the history of recorded sound that’s still playable, this is about as far back as we can go,” said John Schneiter, a member of the Museum of Innovation and Science.

The clip features what appears to be a cornet solo, followed by a man reciting ‘Mary Had A Little Lamb’ and his ensuing laughter.

Listen below: