At the age of 88, celebrated actor and artist Sir Anthony Hopkins has embarked on a significant new chapter in his career by signing a recording contract with Decca Classics. The star, known for iconic roles in films such as The Silence of the Lambs, The Elephant Man, The Remains of the Day, and The Father, will release a collection of orchestral music he has composed over the past sixty years.
Reflecting on the project, Hopkins described music as his primary desire and a lifelong pursuit. He noted that he has been composing throughout his life, frequently returning to pieces that have remained with him for decades. The upcoming album, titled Life Is a Dream, features the Philharmonia Orchestra and is conducted by Gustavo Dudamel. A first single from the project, titled Bracken Road, was released today. Decca stated that the piece acts as a nostalgic musical portrait of the landscapes surrounding the actor’s childhood home in Margam, South Wales, during the 1940s.
The album will also include compositions like My Fatherland, which draws on traditional Welsh melodies, alongside works inspired by cinema, his wife, and his niece. Hopkins expressed that signing with Decca is a profound honor. He shared his gratitude for the collaboration with the Philharmonia Orchestra and virtuoso soloists cellist Gregorio Nieto and pianist Sergio Tiempo. He also praised Maestro Gustavo Dudamel, noting that his artistry was vital to the musical journey, as he transformed every note into a pictorial landscape.
Laura Monks, president of Decca, highlighted the privilege of working with Hopkins, noting that his deep knowledge of classical music is a joy to celebrate. She described the recording sessions in London as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. This project follows a history of musical endeavors for the self-taught composer, who has played piano since age four. Previously, his work was featured on André Rieu’s 2011 album, and in 2012, he released his own album titled Composer, which earned him a Classic Brit Award for Album of the Year. He also made his live musical performance debut in 2025 in Saudi Arabia. Life Is a Dream is scheduled for release on 21 August.
He’s one of the greatest actors of his generation, has won numerous accolades for his work on stage and screen – including two Oscars – and happens to be a prolific painter.
