Paris, 1835. Twenty-five-year-old Frédéric Chopin is the darling of Parisian salons, the aristocracy, and the King of France. No important social event can take place without him. His friends admire him; women desire him.

The viewer follows him through late-night escapades and post-performance parties as he dismisses his illness as little more than a joke. As life slowly slips through his fingers, Frédéric refuses to slow down, continuing to compose his masterpieces — even on commission. Burdened by financial obligations, he also begins working as a piano teacher.