The Investec Champions Cup Final is one of the showpiece events in European club rugby, bringing together the leading clubs from across the continent for the climax of the tournament.

ON THE SLY was commissioned to create the musical score for the opening ceremony, working alongside the creative and production teams to deliver a live performance staged moments before kick-off.

The ceremony concept drew on themes of rivalry and confrontation, reflecting the intensity of elite club rugby. At the centre of the performance was a live drumming troupe performing on battle drums, representing two tribes preparing for conflict before the final showdown on the pitch.

Our approach began with composing a percussion-led score in collaboration with Jo Wills, artistic director of Drumworks. Working closely together, we developed drum parts designed to translate effectively onto the field, allowing the performers to deliver the music live while maintaining the dramatic structure of the ceremony.

The score built gradually from sparse rhythmic motifs into a powerful percussion sequence that drove the performance forward. As the music intensified, dancers and performers revealed the tournament trophy and team flags, culminating in a final musical moment that signalled the transition from ceremony to match.

The result was a tightly structured live score that supported the visual storytelling and helped transform the opening ceremony into a powerful pre-match moment for players, fans and broadcast audiences.

This project forms part of ON THE SLY’s work delivering music and sound direction for sporting ceremonies and large-scale opening shows around the world.