Sometimes, one unexpected opportunity can change a person’s life forever. For David Tolley, that moment came on December 19, 1985, during a taping of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson.

That evening, the scheduled pianist, Horacio Gutiérrez, was unable to perform because of a hand injury. Johnny Carson turned to the audience and asked if anyone could play the piano. David Tolley bravely raised his hand and was invited onto the stage.

What happened next amazed everyone. Tolley sat at the piano and delivered a beautiful performance of “Memory” from the musical Cats. His unexpected talent earned him a standing ovation and left the audience impressed.