Win a trip to the birthplace of the composer of the Olympic Anthem
When you think of the great musical personalities who have performed Olympic Anthems over the years, Spyridon Samaras is probably not the first name to pop into your head.
Global mega stars such as Freddie Mercury, Gloria Estefan, Tina Arena and Bjork have all taken centre stage in recent history to belt out the chosen theme tune of the greatest show on earth.
But at the end of July 2012, as rockers Muse take to the mic to carry on this sporting musical tradition at London’s Olympic chapter, spare a thought for a Greek composer from the Ionian Islands, who started it all off.
Born in Corfu in 1861, Spyridon Samaras might not be a modern day popstar pin up, but back when music was more harpsichord than keyboard, he was recognised as one of the top composers of his generation.
Having studied in Athens and Paris, Samaras rose to prominence, receiving worldwide acclaim for his music. This included his stunning operatic compositions for which he is most famous.
On the back of his considerable reputation, Samaras was asked to compose the music for the Anthem for the 1896 Summer Olympics, the first modern Olympic Games.
Now recognised as the official anthem of the Olympic movement, Samaras’ song has been played at every Olympic opening and closing ceremony since the Winter Olympics in 1960.
To celebrate Spyridon Samaras’ contribution to Olympic Musical History, the Ionian region of his birth is giving away a fantastic luxury holiday for two to the island of Corfu, including return flights and 3 nights’ 5* accommodation.
To enter the competition, simply log onto our special Facebook page, click on the ‘Win a Trip to the Ionian Islands’ link and enter your name and email address so we can contact you if you have won. You will then be asked a question about the Olympic Anthem.
All the correct answers will go into a draw and the winner will be announced on the 27th July.
That’s it!
The competition runs until 26th July, at 12pm BST, so get your entry in now… here’s what people are saying about the Ionian Islands…
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