Anthony Hopkins: Life Is a Dream album review - easy on the ear melodies written from the heart
Actor Anthony Hopkins has released a new classical music album titled 'Life Is a Dream,' featuring compositions written throughout his life. The album, recorded with the Philharmonia Orchestra and conductor Gustavo Dudamel, showcases his cinematic style and personal tributes.
Why it matters
The album highlights the intersection of Hollywood celebrity culture and classical music composition, drawing interest from both film and music enthusiasts.
Anthony Hopkins in the recording hall with conductor Gustavo Dudamel. Photograph: Suzannah Letts/Charlie Gray Anthony Hopkins in the recording hall with conductor Gustavo Dudamel. Photograph: Suzannah Letts/Charlie Gray Classical music Review Anthony Hopkins: Life Is a Dream album review – easy on the ear melodies written from the heart Philharmonia Orchestra/Dudamel (Decca) There’s a cinematic flourish to many of Hopkins’ compositions, together with fine arrangements of Welsh tunes and pieces dedicated to family
Clive Paget Fri 21 Aug 2026 02.30 EDT Last modified on Fri 21 Aug 2026 06.24 EDT Share Prefer the Guardian on Google A nthony Hopkins, it turns out, has been composing music all his life. Now, at the age of 88, the Welsh-born Hollywood actor makes his Decca debut, securing the services of LA Philharmonic’s outgoing music director Gustavo Dudamel to bring his music to life.
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