Thompson began to focus on full orchestral composition and in 2004 became the first woman in Europe in more than 40 years to have composed and conducted a symphony . '' New Nation Rising , A 21st Century Symphony '' was recorded by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra to celebrate one thousand years of London 's history . The piece sees the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra play alongside two choirs , solo singers , a rapper and dhol drummers . Originally commissioned for the Golden Jubilee of Elizabeth II in 2002 and the concept is described " a predecessor of the 2012 Olympics Opening Ceremony "
2012 Olympics Opening Ceremony
2012 Summer Olympics opening ceremony
Shirley Thompson (composer)