World Youth Symphony Orchestra director Cristian Măcelaru conducts at Paris Olympics’ Opening Ceremony
Măcelaru led the Orchestre National de France and Radio France Choir in a performance of the traditional “Olympic Hymn”.
Musicians from the French National Orchestra wore ponchos to keep off the rain during the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games (Mike Egerton/PA).
On Friday, July 26, Cristian Măcelaru conducted the Orchestre National de France in the Opening Ceremony of the Olympics in Paris. Known for his GRAMMY-winning Wynton Marsalis recording as well as his work in conducting top U.S. orchestras, Măcelaru is beloved in the Interlochen community for his role as artistic director and principal conductor of the World Youth Symphony Orchestra.
Măcelaru conducted the prestigious young ensemble in early July for a performance of Tchaikovsy’s Violin Concerto. Last Friday found Măcelaru poised in the international spotlight as his Orchestre performed on the Trocadéro—just across the Seine from the Eiffel Tower.
"I never thought in my life that I would have this opportunity. It’s a very beautiful thing because it’s an event where we all seem to forget the things that separate us and remember the beauty of the things that bring us together," Măcelaru told Romanian media network News.ro.
As the rain fell, Măcelaru conducted the poncho-clad Orchestre and the Radio France Choir through a rendition of the "Olympic Hymn". This choral cantata was composed by Greek opera composer Spyridon Samaras, with lyrics by Greek poet Kostis Palamas Members. Composed for the first ever Summer Olympic Games in 1896, the piece is traditionally played at the raising and lowering of the flag.
Măcelaru’s performance was part of a diverse musical program which included music from well-known works like Les Misérables and The Phantom of the Opera. Performers included pop icon Lady Gaga, mezzo-soprano Marina Viotti, pianist Alexandre Kantorow, and many more.
If you’re interested in studying with Măcelaru and other top musicians, consider applying to Interlochen Arts Camp—the nation’s premier multidisciplinary summer arts program. View Camp Music programs and apply today.
