The music used by a female figure skater for her free program
We’re introducing the music used by women’s figure skaters in their free skating programs! Free skating is a segment where skaters perform by freely combining elements within a set time and number of required elements.
Free programs like Shizuka Arakawa’s to “Nessun dorma” and Mao Asada’s to “Piano Concerto No.
2” moved audiences not only in Japan but all around the world.
In this article, we’ve gathered the pieces that support the performances in which each skater dances to their fullest potential.
As you listen, relive those unforgettable, moving moments!
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Songs used by female figure skaters for their free skate (1–10)
JIN – Jin –Takami Yū
JIN -Main Title- expresses, on a grand scale, the world of a timeless, beloved drama.
Composed by Yu Takami as part of the score for the 2009 TBS Sunday Theater drama JIN, it is included on the album “TBS Sunday Theater ‘JIN’ Original Soundtrack,” released the same year.
The piece is also known for being used by figure skater Rinka Watanabe in her free skate at the 2022 Skate Canada, where she captured a come-from-behind victory in her Grand Prix Series debut.
The powerful resonance of taiko drums and the graceful melodies of the strings evoke a distinctly Japanese sensibility and a dramatic arc, stirring the hearts of viewers.
There may be no other piece of music that immerses you so completely in the story unfolding on the ice.
Hymn to LoveÉdith Piaf
Édith Piaf, the chanson singer who represents France.
Her powerful voice, resonating from her petite frame, is still loved around the world today.
Speaking of her signature works, there’s “Hymne à l’amour.” In Japan, it’s affectionately known by the title “Ai no Sanka” (“Hymn to Love”) and is also famous through Fubuki Koshiji’s cover.
Recorded in May 1950, this passionate ballad vows eternal love to a sweetheart and moves the hearts of its listeners.
It’s also very popular in the figure skating world, and drew attention when Kaori Sakamoto used it for her free program in the 2025 season.
Sung within the film “Paris chante toujours,” its grand, timeless melody is a perfect match for emotionally stirring moments on the ice, so be sure to check it out.
ShakuhachiArmand Amar
Hana Yoshida achieved a remarkable third place at the 2023 Grand Prix Final.
Here is the music she used for her free skate: it is included on the soundtrack to the 2015 documentary film HUMAN, composed by the French composer Armand Amar.
The serene resonance of the shakuhachi’s breath layered with the orchestra is beautiful, drawing the audience into a mystical world.
Choreographer Lori Nichol selected the music, and the program was created with the image of a “crane.” The tension and spaciousness of the piece perfectly match Yoshida’s elegant glide across the ice.
It’s a track that highlights her performance by blending Eastern sonorities with modern sound design.
Songs used by women’s figure skaters for their free programs (11–20)
La Vie en roseÉdith Piaf
When people think of figure skating, many imagine glamorous, dramatic performances.
This classic chanson perfectly embodies that world, crafted into a melody brimming with love and passion.
It is sung by Édith Piaf, who, as one of France’s most iconic singers, left behind numerous timeless songs.
The piece has also drawn attention as the music used by Kaori Sakamoto for her free program in the 2025–2026 season.
Originally released as a single in the late 1940s, it was also performed in the 1948 film “Neuf garçons, un cœur,” and has continued to be cherished by fans across generations.
The powerful vocals celebrating the joy of love pair exquisitely with elegant skating.
On a sunny dayGiacomo Puccini
When people think of famous opera pieces, many might picture this one.
Un bel dì, vedremo is a piece from the opera Madama Butterfly, composed by Giacomo Puccini, and it’s known in Japan as Aru Hareta Hi (“One Fine Day”).
It expresses the poignant feelings of Cio-Cio-san as she waits, believing in her husband’s return.
Though it’s a historic piece first performed in February 1904, it drew major attention in the figure skating world when Mao Asada used it for her free program in 2015.
Beginning in silence and gradually building in emotion, its dramatic progression beautifully enhances performances on the ice.
This work has also been used in numerous films and TV dramas.
Why not give it a listen while recalling athletes’ memorable performances?
ToscaGiacomo Puccini
When you think of a passionate tragedy set in Rome, many will recall this opera composed by Giacomo Puccini.
Premiered in January 1900, it tells a story where the love between a diva and a painter intersects with the schemes of the chief of police.
The arias “Vissi d’arte, vissi d’amore” and “E lucevan le stelle,” sung in the opera, are so popular that they are frequently performed on their own.
It has long been beloved in the figure skating world as well; Satoko Miyahara’s performance at a November 2021 competition captivated audiences with its delicate expressiveness.
The dramatic development and beautiful melodies further elevate performances on the ice.
If you want to immerse yourself in grand, emotionally stirring music, why not give it a listen?
Training With Mr. SchaibelCarlos Rafael Rivera
The piece that drew attention because rising star of Japanese figure skating Mao Shimada used it in her free program for the 2021–2022 season is a number composed by Carlos Rafael Rivera.
The quietly repeating piano motif evokes the image of earnest, day-by-day training.
As the strings gradually join in, they seem to express an inner passion, leaving you with a sense of being cleansed.
It’s included on the album “The Queen’s Gambit: Music from the Netflix Limited Series,” released in October 2020 as the score for the drama The Queen’s Gambit.
The music, which colors the story of a young chess prodigy’s growth, pairs perfectly with performances on the ice.
It’s an ideal track for times when you want to sharpen your focus or immerse yourself in something.
As you listen, let it remind you of the dignity of striving toward your dreams.