The Evolving Harmony of Music and Figure Skating: A New Era of Artistic Expression
Figure skating is undergoing a captivating transformation, increasingly blurring the lines between sport and art. The recent Winter Olympics in Milan showcased a significant shift, with skaters choosing music that resonates with a broader audience and forging connections with the artists themselves. This isn’t merely about selecting a catchy tune; it’s about a deeper collaboration and a recognition of the artistic merit within the sport.
From Classical Tradition to Pop Sensations
For years, figure skating programs traditionally relied on classical music or sweeping film scores. While beautiful, this often limited the sport’s appeal to a niche audience. The allowance of music with lyrics, first introduced in competition in 2014 but gaining prominence at the 2018 Pyeongchang Olympics, opened up a world of possibilities. However, it was at the 2022 Beijing Olympics and, even more so, in Milan, that the change became truly noticeable.
Nathan Chen’s gold medal performance to Elton John’s “The Rocket Man” in 2022 was a pivotal moment. The fact that Elton John himself acknowledged the performance on Twitter highlighted the growing interaction between athletes and musicians. This trend continued in Milan, with skaters like Alysa Liu and Amber Glenn attracting attention from major artists like Taylor Swift and Madonna.
Artist Recognition and Social Media Amplification
The connection isn’t one-way. Artists are actively acknowledging and celebrating skaters’ interpretations of their work. When USA’s Amber Glenn skated to Lady Gaga’s version of “That’s Life,” Lady Gaga responded with a heartfelt message on Glenn’s TikTok account, expressing she cried while watching the performance. Similarly, Taylor Swift created a short film featuring American skaters Alysa Liu, Amber Glenn, and Isabeau Levito, which quickly went viral on social media platforms like TikTok.
Zara Larsson also reacted to Alysa Liu skating to her song “Stateside” with a TikTok video expressing her emotional response. This level of engagement is unprecedented and significantly boosts the visibility of both the sport and the artists involved.
Navigating Copyright and Future Collaborations
The increasing apply of popular music introduces new challenges, particularly regarding copyright. Securing the rights to use copyrighted material can be complex and costly. However, the increased attention from artists during the Olympics may encourage more streamlined collaborations and a greater understanding of the value of these partnerships.
Angelica Olsson, SVT’s figure skating expert, believes this increased visibility will benefit both parties. “The attention during the Olympics will likely make more artists aware of what such a collaboration entails,” she stated.
The Skater’s Perspective: Music as a Catalyst for Expression
Choosing the right music is crucial for skaters. It’s not simply about selecting a popular song; it’s about finding a piece that complements their strengths and allows them to express themselves fully on the ice. As Angelica Olsson explains, skaters need music they genuinely connect with to deliver a compelling and emotionally resonant performance.
Amber Glenn emphasized the importance of artistic collaboration, stating, “It’s fantastic to see an artist collaborate with athletes in this way. What we do is our own type of art, and having someone encourage that means a lot.”
The Future of Figure Skating: A Blend of Athleticism and Artistry
The trend towards incorporating contemporary music and fostering artist-athlete connections is likely to continue. The recent raising of the minimum age for Olympic participation to 17 is also contributing to a more mature and artistically focused field, allowing skaters to develop greater emotional depth and expressiveness.
Skaters like Ilia Malinin, who blends classical music with hip-hop, are pushing boundaries and demonstrating the potential for innovative musical choices. This willingness to experiment and embrace diverse genres will undoubtedly shape the future of the sport.
FAQ
Q: When did figure skaters first start using music with lyrics?
A: Music with lyrics was first allowed in competition in 2014, but became more prominent at the 2018 Pyeongchang Olympics.
Q: What challenges does using popular music present?
A: The main challenge is navigating copyright issues and securing the necessary rights to use the music.
Q: How are artists responding to skaters using their music?
A: Artists are increasingly acknowledging and celebrating skaters’ performances on social media and through direct messages.
Q: Is there a specific age requirement for Olympic skaters now?
A: Yes, the minimum age for Olympic skaters is now 17.
Did you understand? The blend of athleticism and artistry is what makes figure skating unique among the Olympic sports.
Pro Tip: Pay attention to the music choices of top skaters – they often set the trend for future programs.
The evolution of figure skating is a testament to the power of collaboration and the enduring appeal of artistic expression. As the sport continues to embrace new musical influences and foster connections with artists, it’s poised to captivate audiences for years to come.
Explore more: Check out SVT’s coverage of Alysa Liu skating to Zara Larsson.
