Olympische Hymne (Olympic Hymn) Richard Strauss / Arr. Gottfried Veit

In 1932, Richard Strauss was approached by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to compose an anthem for the 1936 Summer Olympics to be held in Berlin. Early in 1933, Strauss agreed to compose an Olympic Hymn, with the condition that a suitable text be found to set to music. This hymn for choir and orchestra was completed by Strauss on December 22, 1934.
The principal music theme was derived from a major symphony Strauss planned but never finished. The premiere was held on August 1, 1936, at the opening ceremonies of the 1936 Summer Olympics at the Olympic Stadium (Berlin), with the Berlin Philharmonic.
Italian arranger Gottfried Veit transcribed this Olympic Hymn' for Symphonic Band.