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 women's figure skaters for their free skate (21–30)
Piano Concerto No. 2Sergei Rachmaninov
For many people, this is “the” piece associated with Mao Asada.
It was the music she used at the 2014 Sochi Olympics.
Her powerful free skate moved audiences around the world beyond mere rankings.
Among Rachmaninoff’s four piano concertos, it is one of the most popular masterpieces.
In addition to its accessible melodic beauty, its virtuosic, brilliant chords and arpeggios make it an exceptionally captivating work.
DrowningAnnu Shira
“Drowning” is the song that’s been getting a lot of buzz for being so catchy.
It’s a track by French singer Anne Sila, with lyrics that liken the feeling of longing for someone you love to the sensation of drowning.
Her ultra-high, powerful vocals will stick in your head after just one listen.
Because it’s such a beloved song in France, Mana Kawabe may have chosen it for the 2022 Grand Prix de France.
It’s also known as the rhythm dance music used by Madison Hubbell and Zachary Donohue, who won the bronze medal at the Beijing Olympics.
from the opera ToscaJiakomo Pucchīni
At the 2021 Grand Prix in Italy, Satoko Miyahara delivered a spellbinding performance that drew widespread coverage both in Japan and abroad.
The music she used was Tosca.
This is an opera composed by Giacomo Puccini around 1900.
The full work runs about 1 hour and 50 minutes, so only a small portion was actually used in her program.
It’s a masterpiece that has gone down in history, so take this opportunity to give it a listen.
Since it’s structured in three acts, I recommend enjoying it over three sessions.
Baby, God Bless YouSeizuka Shinya
Rika Kihira has been using “Baby, God Bless You” for her free program since 2020.
This piece is known as the main theme of the drama “Kounodori.” Its composer, Shinya Kiyozuka, has said he created the music while imagining the preciousness and weight of a life about to be born, as well as the sense of blessing.
That’s why it has such a gentle, warm sound.
In fact, there’s not only a piano solo version but also one performed with an orchestra.
Be sure to compare the two.
JIN – BenevolenceTakamiyuu
Rinka Watanabe thrilled Japanese skating fans by winning the 2022 Grand Prix Series event in Canada.
The music she used then was “JIN -Jin- Main Title.” Composed by Yu Takami as the theme song for the period drama “JIN -Jin-,” its melody carries a distinctly Japanese flavor that enhanced the production.
In fact, to match the style of the piece, Rinka Watanabe performed in a traditional Japanese-inspired costume.
Let’s take another look at the performance and the music, paying attention to the details.
from the opera Madama ButterflyJiakomo Pucchīni
At the 2017 Japan Championships, Satoko Miyahara used “Madama Butterfly.” It’s an opera by composer Giacomo Puccini based on a novel of the same name.
The story is actually set in Japan and portrays a romance between a woman from a good family and an American man.
Knowing the story behind the music makes the elegant choreography and the costume—whose design evokes a kimono—feel all the more fitting.
The piece is also widely known from Mao Asada’s performances.
Be sure to watch those as well!
BoleroMōrisu Raveru
Boléro is a piece inseparable from figure skating.
Its elegant melody has been loved by many skaters over the years.
In Japan, it has been used by Shoma Uno.
Looking back at figure skating history, it was also Boléro that Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean used when they achieved perfect marks for artistic impression.
The piece was originally composed by Maurice Ravel for ballet, which may be why it pairs so well with performance.