Who composed the music of the Olympic anthem first performed at the 1896 Summer Olympics?

Spyridon Samaras composed the music of the Olympic anthem first performed at the 1896 Summer Olympics.

The Greek composer wrote the music to lyrics by poet Kostis Palamas. The anthem was performed during the opening ceremony in Athens in 1896, establishing an early musical association with the revived Olympic movement.

For many decades, different host nations used their own musical arrangements and ceremonial music. In 1958, the International Olympic Committee formally adopted Samaras's composition as the Olympic anthem. The official anthem is based on the original Greek work, although performances may use translations or instrumental arrangements.

The Olympic anthem is distinct from the Olympic hymn and from the fanfares used for medal ceremonies. It is also separate from the Olympic motto, which is a short Latin phrase rather than a musical composition.