"The resonance of the 2,400-year-old metal bells and modern jade chimes reflects the aspiration of balance and harmony of our Chinese ancestors," Tan, who also wrote the original score for Ang Lee's Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, said.

"I hope people remember that China is still the ancient middle kingdom searching for harmony," he said.

Visitors to Beijing can find the origins of the Chinese philosophy of blending metals and jade at the Confucius Temple, Zhao said.

Molihua dates back to ancient times in China, but it became known around the world when it was used by Italian composer Giacomo Puccini in his opera Turandot.

"From Puccini to the Beijing Olympics, this melody is a gift from the Chinese people to the world's athletes," Tan said.

Molihua was selected as the music for the medal ceremonies from more than 4,000 pieces submitted over the past four years by amateur and professional composers from around the world, Zhao said.