During a German offensive in Belgium in December 1944, a USO symphonic orchestra is captured by the Germans. The orchestra leader, Lionel Evans, persuades the Germans to spare their lives by arguing they are civilian non-combatants. They are taken to the HQ of a German tank division, where they meet General Schiller, an avid music lover who is hesitant to execute them. However, his second-in-command, Colonel Arndt, wants the prisoners shot. Evans and the orchestra are eventually forced to perform for General Schiller, while secretly planning their escape with the help of the Belgian resistance.
Counterpoint
A celebrated maestro is taken prisoner by the Germans during World War II and compelled to lead private performances for Nazi officials.