Invictus Games: Invictus Anthem for All

Microsoft, in partnership with the Invictus Games Foundation and McCann, have used the power of technology to create a new way for more wounded, injured and sick service personnel and veterans to take part in the Invictus Games. Not through playing sport, through playing music. In recognition of the fact that many may be unable to take part in the Games, the team invited a group of wounded, injured and sick service (WIS for short) personnel and veterans to do the incredible: Create an anthem for the Invictus Games The Hague 2020. Anthem For All uses bespoke technology to enable WIS personnel and veterans to play instruments that they would otherwise be unable to play in order to compose a truly inclusive anthem for the Invictus Games The Hague 2020, which was played at every medals ceremony at this year’s Games in The Hague, Netherlands, between 16-22 April. Working in collaboration with Microsoft’s Hands-Free Technology Lab in San Francisco, the project team adapted existing tech and created bespoke solutions to suit the varied abilities of the participants. Utilising Xbox adaptive controllers and Gaze eye tracking technology, the team assembled an orchestra of instruments that could be played with limited hand mobility or even eye movement, restoring a part of them that had previously been taken away by their injuries. The musicians were backed by the Invictus Games Choir, themselves all wounded, injured or sick service personnel and veterans also. The campaign features Private Karl Hinett and Lance Corporal Emma Lumb: