Few people are aware, but before Anthony Hopkins became an actor, he was a musician. The Academy Award winning star is known for his chilling Silence of the Lambs performance in 1991 and an extensive film and stage career. But prior to his Hannibal days, the celebrated thespian studied music at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, graduating in 1957. From there, he trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in 1960.

Hopkins wrote this waltz when he was just 19 years old, entitled ‘And The Waltz Goes On.’ Shortly after he composed the work, he served two years in the British Army. The diversion kept him from pursuing music, and when he returned from his stint in the army he began his acting career. He never heard the waltz performed – until now.

Watch below as Andre Rieu and His Johann Strauss Orchestra perform the beautiful piece of music for the first time ever. Hopkins’ reaction is incredible! His lips move as he listens, softly singing the melody he constructed so many years before. At the end, he stands and thanks both the cheering crowd and the musicians who performed his work so flawlessly. What a truly talented and remarkable individual.

Share this orchestra’s beautiful surprise today.