Polish patriot and composer Frédéric Chopin (Cornel Wilde) is one of the 19th century's most famous musicians, whose love of country and devotion to his legendary music are threatened by his passionate affair with novelist George Sand (Merle Oberon) and his rivalry with mentor Josef Elsner (Paul Muni). Despite his failing health and Poland's subjugation by the Russians, Chopin continues playing, deciding to give one last rousing concert tour across Europe that could cost him his life.