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This film presents the poignant story of the exile of Hungarian composer Bela Bartok. Bartok left his homeland during the destruction of Europe in World War II, and sought refuge in New York. The film chronicles his life there, through his own recollections, as well as through the recollections of friends and relatives. Artistically misunderstood and impoverished, Bartok lived his final five years in adversity; yet, he triumphed in creating some of his most outstanding musical compositions, including his Third Piano Concerto, the Sonata for Solo Violin, and the Concerto for Orchestra. The Budapest Symphony Orchestra perform excerpts from Bartok's works.