Here's the story:
Arion was a renowned poet and musician who traveled around Greece performing. He had amassed a great fortune, and while sailing home from Italy, his crew decided to murder him for his riches. Knowing their intentions, Arion requested one final performance before his death. He sang and played his lyre beautifully, and as the crew wept at his music, he jumped into the sea.
A dolphin, captivated by his performance, rescued him and carried him safely to shore.
This tale, though legendary, has been recorded in several ancient Greek texts, and is often cited as an example of the power of art and the kindness of nature.