The 2012 London Olympics Opening Ceremony: Music that Made History
As thousands of athletes from over 200 countries descended upon London for the 2012 Olympics, the opening ceremony became an event memorized for its unparalleled blend of artistry and athleticism. One of the most significant elements of the ceremony was, of course, the carefully curated music that set the stage for the celebration of human endeavor.
A Journey through Classic and Contemporary Soundscapes
The London Summer Olympics opening ceremony featured a rich tapestry of music that ranged from nostalgic, instrumental pieces to modern, rhythmic tracks. From the dramatic closing of the 1944 film "Gone with the Wind" to the high-energy contemporary compositions, the soundtrack of the ceremony intertwined to create an unforgettable atmosphere. Among the highlights of the musical selections was the iconic Chariots of Fire by Vangelis, an orchestral piece that uplifted and energized the audience.
Recognition of Familiar Tunes
Besides the famous Chariots of Fire, the ceremony also featured a rendition of Rolling in the Deep by Adele and Staying Alive by the Bee Gees. Both these tracks played during the Parade of Nations, giving a nostalgic nod to fans of these artists. Another recognizable piece was the opening theme from Muse, one of my personal favorites, though I couldn't pinpoint the specific song at the time due to its subtle embedding in the ceremony.
Orchestral Excellence
The centerpiece of the music was, without a doubt, the London Symphony Orchestra (LSO) led by Fran?ois-Xavier Roth. The Chariots of Fire symphony, played by the LSO, was a concert-pieces of the ceremony that gave goosebumps to countless viewers. When the orchestra struck up the notes, it was incredibly emotive, drawing everyone into the spirit of the event.
Modern Musical Sensibilities
In addition to the classical and nostalgic sounds, contemporary tracks by artists such as Dizzee Rascal, A.R. Rahman, and Emeli Sandé added to the vibrant, global atmosphere of the ceremony. One notable piece was "And I Will Kiss You" by Underworld feat. Dame Evelyn Glennie and the Pandemonium Drummers, which showcased the integrated performance of the orchestra and the innovative rhythms.
Indie and Alternative Sounds
On CD 1, the soundtrack "Isles of Wonder - Music from the Opening Ceremony" featured a diverse array of artists, ranging from indie folk artist Frank Turner with "I Still Believe," to the Four Nations Choirs singing "Jerusalem," "Flower of Scotland," and "Danny Boy," which echoed the British heritage. Another standout was the instrumental piece "Sundown" by Blanck Mass featuring the LSO, giving a haunting and powerful performance that was both mesmerizing and moving.
Classic Rock and Indie Flair
The second CD, "Welcome - Music played as the athletes entered the stadium," included vibrant tracks by artists like the Chemical Brothers and High Contrast, which added an uplifting and dynamic energy to the scene. The enduring classic "Where the Streets Have No Name" by U2 was featured as well, ensuring that no matter the era of the athlete, they would feel the spirit of the event.
Overall, the music of the 2012 London Olympics opening ceremony served not only to enhance the atmosphere but also to create a cohesive story of human effort, unity, and celebration. Whether through classic orchestrations or modern rhythms, the sounds that filled the Olympic Stadium on that day are still memorable and resonate with those who witnessed the magic live or through subsequent media coverage.
For those interested in exploring the music further, I recommend checking out the original compositions and performances. It's an incredible journey through the history of music in the context of one of the greatest sporting events of our time.