In this sly social and political allegory, an orchestra assembles for a rehearsal under the inquisitive lenses of a TV crew. With their bullish union officials lingering on the sidelines, the musicians introduce themselves one by one, expounding with wit, passion and rancour about the characteristics of their instruments. The rehearsal begins under the baton of an autocratic conductor, and soon the musicians' bawdy humour turns to anarchy as he tries to impose his will on this diverse group of players...

Featuring a superlative score from Nina Rota (The Godfather 1 & 2, expert cinematography from Guiseppe Rotunno (The Leopard) and ingenious production design from Dante Ferretti (Gangs of New York).