Sydney admits taping performance

China caused international uproar when it asked a photogenic girl to mime a song at the opening of the Beijing Games – but it turns out it was only following Australia's example. The Sydney Symphony Orchestra has admitted its stirring performance for the 2000 Olympics was pre-recorded. More galling for Sydneysiders is that parts of the backing tape were recorded by Melbourne Symphony Orchestra – the city's cultural arch-rival. Libby Christie, the director of the Sydney orchestra, said two were required because of tight deadlines and a "mountainous workload". Live performances were ruled out because Games organisers "wanted to leave nothing to chance", she added.

Therefore, her musicians mimed as pre-recorded music was pumped out of speakers.