Classical piece will ring in ears of winners

The classic Chinese tune of Molihua, (Jasmine Flower), played on ancient metal bells and modern jade chimes, has been chosen as the theme score for the Olympic medal ceremonies, composer Tan Dun, who adapted the piece for the Games, said yesterday.

"Molihua is such an iconic piece it is almost a cultural symbol of China, so everybody thought it was a great choice," the 50-year-old Oscar and Grammy award winner, said at a press conference in Beijing to announce the chosen music.

A four-part composition, co-written by Tan and Wang Hesheng, a composer with the Army orchestra, will be played before, during and after each of the 302 medal ceremonies.