The film depicts the final two decades of the life of Russian composer Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov. Exploring his creative and pedagogical philosophy, the narrative highlights key moments such as his lectures at the school of composers he founded, intense debates about the "anti-popular" nature of Ramensky's music (a character based on Igor Stravinsky), struggles against the tyranny of Imperial Theater bureaucrats, and the duplicity of patron Savva Mamontov. The story culminates with scenes from the Russian Revolution of 1905–1907.
The biographical plot is interwoven with vibrant, costumed scenes from Rimsky-Korsakov's operas, including Sadko, The Snow Maiden, The Tale of Tsar Saltan, Kashchey the Immortal, and The Golden Cockerel.
