With the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics wrapping up, it's a good time to remember the classical music performances that have brought a touch of class to the games.
These moments have added a special flair to the Olympics, mixing grand musical pieces with the excitement of the competition.
Most Memorable Classical Performances from Past Olympics
A Political Stage
The 1936 Berlin Olympics were marked by a politically-charged atmosphere. Composer Richard Strauss, despite his private hesitations about the Nazi regime, led the Berlin Philharmonic in playing his "Olympische Hymne" during the opening ceremony. This performance is noted for its complex interplay of music and politics during a pivotal time.
An Emmy-Winning Tribute
A tribute was dedicated to composer George Gershwin at the 1984 Olympics where 84 pianists played "Rhapsody in Blue" together. The musicians' performance later received an Emmy Award for Outstanding Live Sports Special.
Freddie Mercury's Iconic Duet
The late Queen front man Freddie Mercury teamed up with Spanish soprano Montserrat Caballé for a duet of "Barcelona" for the 1992 Olympics performance. Their blend of rock and opera made a huge impact on the Olympics. Mercury's powerful voice and Caballé's operatic expertise created a performance that's still remembered today.
A Grand Opening
The Sydney Symphony Orchestra, the Sydney Philharmonia Choir, and some Sing 2001 children's choir members collaborated to deliver a performance of composer Hector Berlioz's "Te Deum" at the 2000 Sydney Olympics.
Pavarotti's Farewell
Italian tenor Luciano Pavarotti performed a moving rendition of "Nessun Dorma." The performance held special meaning as it marked his final public appearance during the Turin Winter Olympics in 2006 before his death in 2007 due to pancreatic cancer.
Lang Lang and Xiaogang Ye
Renowned pianist Lang Lang graced the stage to premiere a concerto crafted by Xiaogang Ye, a prominent figure in Chinese music at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
Mr. Bean's Musical Sketch
Rowan Atkinson's popular character "Mr. Bean" amused viewers at the 2012 London Olympics with a skit alongside the London Symphony Orchestra, adding a touch of humor to the ceremony.
Kantorow in the Rain
Alexandre Kantorow played Maurice Ravel's "Jeux d'eau" as light rain fell around him, creating a memorable and atmospheric performance recently at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
