On your marks, ready, set, go! Or should I say “Mesdames & Messieurs, faites vos jeux”?
We’re off to Paris this Summer to celebrate the 33rd edition of the Olympic Games and will plan a tring of pieces related to sporting events and the spirit of the competition. Accrochez vos ceintures!
William Tell Overture
Switzerland most celebrated hero was the character chosen by Italian composer Gioachino Rossini for his last opera, very nearly 200 years ago. This overture was also used as the theme for the TV series “The Lone Ranger” which means that both Archery and Horse Riding will be honoured when we play it, although we may choose a slightly slower tempo!
Chariots of fire
Nominated for the Track and Field category and composed by the late Vangelis, the soundtrack to the iconic 1981 movie is a classic amongst famous film themes such the opening octaves played on synth are instantly recognizable. Here’s “Monsieur Fayot” in action…
Gonna fly now
Another movie classic moment when Rocky Balboa trains for the heavyweight boxing showdown against Apollo Creed (played by the late Carl Weathers) and climb the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art to Bill Conti’s theme, all 72 of them. We’ll probably do a little side step towards the Maynard’s version, just for fun! Here’s how 3 high flying trumpeters do it…
Te Deum’s Prelude
Not related to any sports but since it’s used for the Eurovision song contest and we’ve just started the Euro 24 football tournament, we’ll make an exception. Composed by Marc-Antoine Charpentier in the late 17th century and rediscovered mid 20th century, the Prelude is arguably his most famous work.
Richmond Music Academy 