Dame Julie Andrews is returning to Austria for the Vienna Philharmonic's New Year's celebrations after pulling out of the event last year (10) following the death of her husband Blake Edwards.
Andrews has hosted the celebrations at Vienna's Musikverein twice before and was set to attend last year's gala, but was replaced by U.S. newswoman Paula Zahn at the last minute.
And she admits the festivities will help to take her mind off the anniversary of Edwards' death: "It's a good thing to be doing this year."
The annual concert is the largest classical music event in the world, reaching over a billion people through radio and television in 72 countries, and The Sound of Music star loves being a part of the show: "It is always a privilege and a wonderful spoiling to visit Vienna, especially at holiday time. The sights and sounds are glorious and I bask in the irresistible music all around me, particularly the beautiful Strauss waltzes."
From Vienna: The New Year's Celebration 2012 will air live in America on 1 January (12).