Classic Brit is musical first for Silence of Lambs star

Sir Anthony Hopkins found himself with a share of a Classic Brit Award last night after one of his compositions featured on the album of the year.

The Silence of the Lambs star – who won an Oscar for his 1991 portrayal of Hannibal Lecter – attended the ceremony with his friend, violinist Andre Rieu, who recorded one of the actor’s works as the title track of his album And The Waltz Goes On. Another Academy Award-winner, composer John Williams, was also among the victors, collecting the best composer title to go with a lifetime achievement honour.

Gareth Malone and his choir of Military Wives were awarded the inaugural single of the year prize for their Christmas chart-topper Wherever You Are.

The group helped to round off the evening by performing another hit, the jubilee anthem Sing. They were accompanied at the Royal Albert Hall by the song’s composers, Take That star Gary Barlow and Andrew Lloyd Webber, who both played grand pianos.

Mr Rieu – known as the king of the waltz – collected the top album prize for the second year running, after triumphing in a public vote. Sir Anthony said: “It’s a dream come true for me. I’ve always admired Andre.”