Music was a core part of the Opening Ceremony at the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026, from powerhouse vocalists to inspired instrumentalists.
Keen-eyed viewers will have spotted Lang Lang at the piano on Friday (6 February), one of the most celebrated and influential pianists of our time.
He was joined by world-renowned mezzo-soprano Cecilia Bartoli, the pair delivering a show-stopping duet at the Milano San Siro Olympic Stadium as they performed the Olympic Anthem.
It wasn’t Lang’s first performance at the Games, having previously delivered a similarly stunning show at Beijing 2008.
On the music scene, he has collaborated with high-profile artists such as Pharrell Williams and Coldplay, while also joining many of the world’s top orchestras.
Lang has previously been dubbed “the hottest artist on the classical music planet,” taking his show around the globe to perform in front of sold-out crowds.
His pursuit of greatness has also taken on many forms away from the keys, contributing to musical education with his very own foundation.
From beginning his musical journey at age three to a household name 40 years later, Lang encapsulates a journey of commitment and sacrifice, making him a fitting complement to one of the biggest moments of an athlete’s career.