The 22 Best Movies About Classical Composers

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Updated May 11, 2024 22 items
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Vote on your favorite movies about or predominately featuring a classical composer (real or fictional).

Cinema has a unique way of bringing the past to life, and when it comes to the realm of harmony and melody, the best movies about classical composers manage to capture the essence of the maestros who shaped the world of music. These films delve into the complex lives of composers, taking the audience through their triumphs, tribulations, and the legacy of their timeless compositions.

Mr. Holland's Opus tells the inspiring story of a music teacher's profound impact on his students while composing his own symphony. Copying Beethoven, on the other hand, gives us a window into the creative process and final years of Ludwig van Beethoven, set against the backdrop of his stunning Ninth Symphony. Meanwhile, Amadeus serves as a dramatic recounting of Mozart's genius, rivalry, and the jealousy that surrounded his career, taking us into the heart of 18th-century Vienna and the opulent world of classical music. 

Each of these films not only pays tribute to the individuals behind the compositions but also illuminates how their music continues to resonate with us. Whether you're a classical aficionado or a movie buff, these films offer a captivating experience that can stir the soul and heighten one's appreciation for the musical giants of the past. Below, find the best movies about classical composers and vote on your favorites.

Latest additions: Maestro
Help shape these rankings by voting on this list of The 22 Best Movies About Classical Composers
  • Immortal Beloved
    Photo: Immortal Beloved

    For Fans Of: Biographical dramas, Romantic dramas, Music
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Classical Composers: Witness the life of Ludwig van Beethoven as he navigates love, passion, and mystery in this 1994 film that delves deep into his relationships and the creation of his timeless music. The sweeping historical drama showcases a genius tormented by deafness yet relentlessly pursuing artistic excellence. Gary Oldman's mesmerizing performance brings authenticity and emotional depth to the character of Beethoven, making it essential viewing for fans of classical music.

    This biography chronicles the life of infamous classical composer Ludwig van Beethoven (Gary Oldman) and his painful struggle with hearing loss. Following Beethoven's death in 1827, his assistant, Schindler (Jeroen Krabbé), searches for an elusive woman referred to in the composer's love letters as "immortal beloved." As Schindler solves the mystery, a series of flashbacks reveals Beethoven's transformation from passionate young man to troubled musical genius.
  • A Song to Remember
    Photo: A Song to Remember

    For Fans Of: Biographical movies, Historical dramas, Music
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Classical Composers: This 1945 biographical drama chronicles the life of famed Polish composer and pianist Frédéric Chopin (Cornel Wilde) and the sacrifices he made for his beloved homeland during turbulent times. The film showcases Chopin's revolutionary music, as well as his complex relationships with fellow artists like George Sand (Merle Oberon) and Franz Liszt (Stephen Bekassy), offering viewers insight into the creative mind of one of history's most celebrated composers. A Song to Remember is an inspirational tribute to the power of art and music in overcoming adversity.

    Polish patriot and composer Frédéric Chopin (Cornel Wilde) is one of the 19th century's most famous musicians, whose love of country and devotion to his legendary music are threatened by his passionate affair with novelist George Sand (Merle Oberon) and his rivalry with mentor Josef Elsner (Paul Muni). Despite his failing health and Poland's subjugation by the Russians, Chopin continues playing, deciding to give one last rousing concert tour across Europe that could cost him his life.
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  • In Search of Beethoven
    Photo: In Search of Beethoven

    For Fans Of: Documentaries, Biographies, Music
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Classical Composers: This immersive documentary by Phil Grabsky takes a comprehensive look at Ludwig van Beethoven's tumultuous life, from his early years in Bonn through his rise to fame amid personal struggles with deafness and alienation. Featuring interviews with renowned musicians, conductors, and scholars, along with captivating footage of live performances, In Search of Beethoven delves deep into the enduring legacy left by one of classical music's most influential figures. For those who appreciate historical context and expert analysis alongside their classical tunes, this film is an essential watch.

    The life story of Beethoven with live musical performances.
  • Copying Beethoven
    Photo: Copying Beethoven

    For Fans Of: Historical dramas, Biographies, Music
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Classical Composers: Set in Vienna during the premiere of Beethoven's Ninth Symphony, this captivating film charts the turbulent relationship between the maestro (played by Ed Harris) and a young female copyist (Diane Kruger), who becomes his unlikely protégé. As they grapple with creativity, ambition, and professional aspirations amidst personal challenges, viewers are treated to an intimate portrayal of the composer's tumultuous life. The combination of robust performances and a beautifully rendered period setting make Copying Beethoven an engrossing watch for classical music enthusiasts.

    Anna Holtz (Diane Kruger), a student at the Vienna Music Conservatory, eagerly accepts an assignment to work as a copyist for composer Ludwig van Beethoven (Ed Harris). The temperamental maestro develops a growing affection for his new companion, but she has plans to marry her longtime beau.
  • 5
    20 votes

    For Fans Of: Historical dramas, Biographical movies, Music
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Classical Composers: This Academy Award-winning masterpiece from director Miloš Forman offers a fictionalized account of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's life as told through the envious eyes of rival composer Antonio Salieri (F. Murray Abraham). With sumptuous sets, opulent costumes, and masterful performances from Tom Hulce as Mozart and Abraham as Salieri, Amadeus presents an enthralling exploration into genius, jealousy, ambition, and divine inspiration within the world of classical music.

    In the period drama Amadeus, we journey into the life of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (Tom Hulce), a prodigious composer in 18th-century Vienna. The film also introduces us to Antonio Salieri (F. Murray Abraham), a contemporary of Mozart, tormented by jealousy over Mozart's divine talent. This Oscar-winning biopic, directed by Milos Forman, explores themes of envy, genius, and the destructive power of obsession. Through Salieri's perspective, we witness Mozart's career bloom amidst personal downfall, creating a riveting narrative that keeps viewers engaged from start to finish.
  • The Chronicle of Anna Magdalena Bach
    Photo: The Chronicle of Anna Magdalena Bach

    For Fans Of: Biographical movies, Historical dramas, Music
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Classical Composers: A deeply personal film that examines Johann Sebastian Bach's life and career from the perspective of his wife, Anna Magdalena. This 1968 avant-garde production is renowned for its authenticity and attention to detail, using period-accurate instruments and musical performances based on original scores. For those passionate about Bach's music and curious about his personal life, this film offers a rare glimpse into the domestic side of a revered composer.

    The Chronicle of Anna Magdalena Bach is a 1968 film by the French filmmaking duo of Jean-Marie Straub and Danièle Huillet. It was their first full-length feature film, and reportedly took a decade to finance. The film stars renowned harpsichordist Gustav Leonhardt as Johann Sebastian Bach and Christiane Lang as Anna Magdalena Bach. The orchestral music was performed by Concentus Musicus and conducted by Nikolaus Harnoncourt. It is the first of several Straub-Huillet films to be based on works of classical music. The film was entered into the 18th Berlin International Film Festival. Though, as on all of their films, Straub and Huillet contributed to the film equally, Straub is the officially credited director. Despite its austere, rigorous style, it is considered to be Straub and Huillet's most "mainstream" film. As of 2008, it is the only one available on DVD in the United States.
  • Mr. Holland's Opus
    Photo: Mr. Holland's Opus

    For Fans Of: Drama, Music, Inspirational films
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Classical Composers: Richard Dreyfuss delivers an inspiring performance as Glenn Holland, a dedicated high school music teacher who aspires to compose his magnum opus throughout decades of teaching young musicians. This touching film underscores the importance of arts education while exploring themes like ambition, balance between personal and professional life, creativity, mentorship, legacy, and community impact through classical music appreciation. Mr. Holland's Opus resonates with anyone who has ever been moved by a great piece of classical music or influenced by an exceptional educator.

    Mr. Holland's Opus is an inspiring drama centered on the life of Glenn Holland (Richard Dreyfuss), a dedicated music teacher at an American high school. The narrative, spanning three decades, traces Mr. Holland's journey from a reluctant educator to a beloved figure shaping young minds through music. In his personal life, he grapples with his relationship with his deaf son, Cole (Joseph Anderson). Directed by Stephen Herek, this film earned Dreyfuss an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. It beautifully blends elements of family drama and educational inspiration into a compelling cinematic opus.
  • Impromptu
    Photo: Impromptu
    8
    7 votes

    For Fans Of: Romantic comedies, Historical dramas, Music
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Classical Composers: Set in 19th-century France, this lighthearted romantic comedy revolves around the unconventional love affair between novelist George Sand (Judy Davis) and composer Frédéric Chopin (Hugh Grant). Rich with vibrant characters, compelling dialogue, and sumptuous visuals, Impromptu showcases the passionate connection between two creative geniuses fueled by their shared love for classical music. The film offers a delightful insight into the Romantic period's artistic and intellectual circles while highlighting Chopin's remarkable talent.

    Composer Frédéric Chopin (Hugh Grant) is living in France, and his health is slowly deteriorating. Author Baroness Amantine-Lucile-Aurore Dupin (Judy Davis), who writes under the name George Sand, admires Chopin from afar and makes plans to meet the composer. After being advised to stay away from Chopin, Sand shows up at a party he is attending and observes his fragile health. While Chopin tries to resist Sand, he is intrigued by a love letter written by an unknown admirer.
  • 9
    17 votes

    For Fans Of: Historical dramas, World War II films, Music
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Classical Composers: Directed by Roman Polanski, this powerful film tells the harrowing true story of Polish-Jewish pianist Władysław Szpilman (Adrien Brody) during World War II. As he struggles to survive the atrocities of war while remaining devoted to his artistry, viewers are drawn into the transformative power of classical music amidst chaos and despair. The Pianist showcases not only Brody's Oscar-winning performance but also offers a moving testament to the resilience of both human spirit and timeless music.

    The Pianist, a historical drama, traces the harrowing journey of Wladyslaw Szpilman (Adrien Brody), a gifted Jewish pianist living in Warsaw during World War II. As Nazi forces take over Poland, Szpilman struggles to survive in the ravaged city. Directed by Roman Polanski, this gripping narrative is a testament to human endurance amidst war's devastation. The film won three Academy Awards - Best Director, Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Actor for Brody's heart-wrenching portrayal of Szpilman. The Pianist paints an unforgettable image of wartime terror and resilience through its poignant storytelling and powerful performances.
  • Mahler
    Photo: Mahler
    10
    10 votes

    For Fans Of: Biographical dramas, Psychological dramas, Music
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Classical Composers: Directed by Ken Russell, this visually stunning biopic traces the life of Austrian composer Gustav Mahler (Robert Powell), weaving together personal experiences with vivid dream sequences inspired by his symphonies. From Mahler's marriage to Alma Schindler (Georgina Hale) to his constant struggle against prejudice as a Jew in the early 20th century, viewers are immersed in the trials and tribulations that shaped one of classical music's most innovative composers. This unconventional film is an intimate portrait of a complex artist striving to find meaning through music.

    After time away spent conducting at the Metropolitan Opera in New York, Gustav Mahler (Robert Powell) is returning to Austria by train with his wife, Alma (Georgina Hale). Over the course of the journey, he has occasion to reflect upon the significant moments of his life. Among others, Mahler dwells on memories of his overbearing father, of his once buoyant but now failing relationship with Alma and of the anti-Semitism that dogged him so much that he converted to Catholicism.
  • Shine
    Photo: Shine
    11
    10 votes

    For Fans Of: Biographical dramas, Inspirational films, Music
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Classical Composers: Geoffrey Rush won an Academy Award for his portrayal of David Helfgott, an Australian pianist whose promising career was derailed due to mental illness. With its powerful storytelling and captivating performances, Shine delves into the lives of those who dedicate themselves entirely to classical music while exploring themes like family dynamics, mental health struggles, resilience, and redemption. As Helfgott finds solace through playing piano compositions by some of western civilization’s greatest composers such as Rachmaninoff and Liszt, viewers can appreciate how transcendent these works remain today.

    As a child piano prodigy, David Helfgott's (Geoffrey Rush) musical ambitions generate friction with his overbearing father, Peter (Armin Mueller-Stahl). When Helfgott travels to London on a musical scholarship, his career as a pianist blossoms. However, the pressures of his newfound fame, coupled with the echoes of his tumultuous childhood, conspire to bring Helfgott's latent schizophrenia boiling to the surface, and he spends years in and out of various mental institutions.
  • Lisztomania
    Photo: Lisztomania
    12
    11 votes

    For Fans Of: Biographies, Music, Fantasy films
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Classical Composers: Director Ken Russell brings his signature flair for visual extravagance and imaginative storytelling to this 1975 musical biopic about Franz Liszt—a flamboyant virtuoso who becomes both wildly famous and controversial during his lifetime. With a soundtrack by rock legend Rick Wakeman of Yes and an energetic performance from The Who's Roger Daltrey, Lisztomania is a fascinating exploration of the relationship between classical music, celebrity culture, and personal ambition that will strike a chord with fans of both classical composers and rock'n'roll.

    Composers Franz Liszt (Roger Daltrey) and Richard Wagner (Paul Nicholas) live wildly, surrounded by groupies and mistresses.
  • Tous les Matins du Monde
    Photo: Metaweb (FB) / Fair use

    For Fans Of: Historical dramas, Music, Romance
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Classical Composers: Set in 17th-century France, this atmospheric period drama explores the enigmatic relationship between viola da gamba virtuoso Marin Marais (Gérard Depardieu) and his mentor Monsieur de Sainte-Colombe (Jean-Pierre Marielle). Shot on location at stunning French chateaux complete with lush landscapes, All the World’s Mornings offers an evocative depiction of Baroque-era aesthetics while capturing the emotional intensity behind musical creation within a deeply hierarchical society. Viewers who appreciate the intersection of art, history, and human drama will be captivated by this poignant tale of ambition, rivalry, and artistic integrity.

    Tous les matins du monde is a 1991 French film based on the book of the same name. Set during the reign of Louis XIV, the film shows the eminent musician Marin Marais looking back on his young life when he tried to become a pupil of Monsieur de Sainte-Colombe, and features much music of the period, especially that for the viola da gamba. The title of the film is explained towards the end of the film; « Tous les matins du monde sont sans retour » spoken by Marais in chapter XXVI of Quignard's novel when he learns of the death of Madeleine.
  • Magic Flute Diaries
    Photo: Magic Flute Diaries
    14
    3 votes

    Magic Flute Diaries

    For Fans Of: Musicals, Magic Realism, Music
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Classical Composers: Inspired by Mozart's beloved opera "The Magic Flute," this imaginative film follows modern-day tenor Tom McTague as he prepares for an upcoming performance while being transported into a parallel universe where fiction meets reality. Blending elements of fantasy, music, and drama, Magic Flute Diaries offers an innovative take on classical opera while captivating viewers with enchanting visuals and a talented cast. For those who appreciate the fantastical side of classical music, this film promises to be a mesmerizing experience.

    Magic Flute Diaries is a 2008 drama film written and directed by Kevin Sullivan.
  • Hilary and Jackie
    Photo: Hilary and Jackie

    For Fans Of: Biographical dramas, Music, Family dramas
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Classical Composers: This compelling biopic follows the lives of British cellist Jacqueline du Pré (Emily Watson) and her sister Hilary (Rachel Griffiths) as they navigate the challenges of success, family dynamics, and personal demons amidst a world of extraordinary musical talent. The film explores themes like sibling rivalry, celebrity pressure, and love for classical music while offering a profound look at the emotional turmoil that often accompanies great genius. With its powerhouse performances and raw storytelling approach, Hilary and Jackie is an unflinching examination of what it means to achieve greatness in the realm of classical music.

    Iris Du Pré (Celia Imrie) inspires a love of music -- and a healthy rivalry -- in her daughters, Hilary (Rachel Griffiths) and Jackie (Emily Watson). Cellist Jackie outshines her flutist sister when her skillful playing lands her in the international spotlight. Meanwhile, Hilary builds a quiet but happy family life. When Jackie buckles under mounting pressures in the high-stress world of elite classical musicians, she turns to Hilary for help, and may put her sister's love to the test.
  • Maestro
    Photo: Maestro
    16
    4 votes

    For Fans Of: Music, Drama, Thriller
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Classical Composers: This delightful documentary by David Donnelly provides an intimate look at the world of classical music through the lens of rising conductor Paavo Järvi as he embarks on a journey to reinvent the traditional role of conductors for modern audiences. Featuring interviews with renowned musicians, behind-the-scenes footage, and enthralling live performances, Maestro takes viewers inside the dynamic process of making incredible music come alive onstage. A must-watch for those passionate about orchestral performance and conducting.

    American conductor Leonard Bernstein falls in love with Costa Rican actress Felicia Montealegre.
  • Beethoven Lives Upstairs
    Video: YouTube

    For Fans Of: Historical dramas, Family films, Music
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Classical Composers: Based on a popular children's book by Barbara Nichol, this family-friendly film tells the story of young Christoph (Illya Woloshyn), whose life is transformed when Ludwig van Beethoven (Neil Munro) becomes his neighbor during his time in Vienna working on his Ninth Symphony. Through clever storytelling and engaging characterizations, Beethoven Lives Upstairs offers a unique perspective on one of history's most famous composers while presenting an accessible introduction to classical music for younger audiences.

    Beethoven Lives Upstairs is a Canadian 1992 HBO Original Films TV movie produced and directed by David Devine. Based on a very popular children's audio recording written and directed by Barbara Nichol, the film stars Illya Woloshyn as Christoph, a young boy who develops a friendship with composer Ludwig van Beethoven, a boarder in the boy's parents' house. The film was shot in Prague in the Czech Republic and has been broadcast in over 110 countries in numerous languages and has sold over one million DVDs and is used extensively in U.S. and Canadian elementary and middle school music classrooms. The film went on to win the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Children's Program in 1993, was nominated for numerous Gemini Awards, and was also admitted to the Permanent Collection in the Paley Center for Media in New York City.
  • Farinelli
    Photo: Metaweb (FB) / Fair use
    18
    4 votes

    For Fans Of: Biographic films, Historical dramas, Music
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Classical Composers: This sumptuous historical drama explores the life of Carlo Broschi (Stefano Dionisi), better known as Farinelli – one of the most celebrated castrato singers in 18th-century Europe. With its impressive production design, lavish costumes, and captivating soundtrack featuring works by Handel and Porpora, Farinelli allows viewers to immerse themselves in the opulent world of Baroque opera while examining themes like ambition, jealousy, and the sacrifices required for artistic success. For fans of classical music or historical drama, Farinelli is a feast for both the eyes and ears.

    Farinelli is a 1994 Belgian-Italian-French biographical drama film directed by Gérard Corbiau and starring Stefano Dionisi, Enrico Lo Verso, Elsa Zylberstein and Jeroen Krabbé. It centers on the life and career of the 18th-century Italian opera singer Carlo Broschi, known as Farinelli, considered the greatest castrato singer of all time; as well as the relation with his brother, composer Riccardo Broschi.
  • The Music Lovers
    Photo: Metaweb (FB) / Fair use

    For Fans Of: Biographical dramas, Music, Historical movies
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Classical Composers: Directed by Ken Russell, this visually arresting 1970 film delves into the turbulent life of Russian composer Peter Tchaikovsky (Richard Chamberlain), exploring his passion for music alongside his struggles with love and social expectations. From his tumultuous marriage to Antonina Miliukova (Glenda Jackson) to his desperate attempts at overcoming his homosexuality in a repressive era, The Music Lovers offers viewers a dramatic insight into the psyche of one of classical music's most revered composers. With its striking imagery and powerful emotional narrative, this film is essential viewing for those fascinated by both classical music history and human drama.

    The Music Lovers is a 1970 British drama film directed by Ken Russell. The screenplay by Melvyn Bragg, based on Beloved Friend, a collection of personal correspondence edited by Catherine Drinker Bowen and Barbara von Meck, focuses on the life and career of 19th century Russian composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. It was one of the director's biographical films about classical composers, which include Elgar, Delius: Song of Summer, Mahler and Lisztomania, made from an often idiosyncratic standpoint.
  • Coco Chanel & Igor Stravinsky
    Video: YouTube

    For Fans Of: Historical dramas, Romantic dramas, Music
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Classical Composers: This beautifully crafted film depicts the passionate love affair between fashion icon Coco Chanel (Anna Mouglalis) and Russian composer Igor Stravinsky (Mads Mikkelsen) against the backdrop of Paris in the 1920s. The tense interplay between two creative giants explores how their respective arts influenced one another while offering insights into the social, cultural, and artistic currents that shaped modernity. Combining striking visuals with stellar performances from Mouglalis and Mikkelsen, Coco Chanel & Igor Stravinsky is an engaging exploration of artistry and passion in a tumultuous era.

    Coco Chanel & Igor Stravinsky is a 2009 French film directed by Jan Kounen. It was chosen as the Closing Film of the 2009 Cannes Film Festival, and was shown on 24 May 2009. Coco Chanel & Igor Stravinsky is based on the 2002 fictional novel Coco and Igor by Chris Greenhalgh and traces a rumoured affair between Coco Chanel and Igor Stravinsky in Paris in 1920, the year that Chanel No. 5 was created. Greenhalgh also wrote the screenplay for the film. Chanel and its current chief designer Karl Lagerfeld lent their support to the production; they granted access to the company's archives and to Coco Chanel's apartment at 31, rue Cambon, Paris. The film was released very soon after Anne Fontaine's film Coco avant Chanel starring Audrey Tautou.
  • Song Without End
    Video: YouTube

    For Fans Of: Biographies, Historical dramas, Music.
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Classical Composers: This biographical film chronicles the vibrant life of Hungarian composer Franz Liszt (Dirk Bogarde) as he navigates romance, rivalry with fellow composers like Richard Wagner (Lyndon Brook), and his insatiable desire to push boundaries within the world of classical music. Featuring celebrated pianist Jorge Bolet on piano and a captivating performance by Bogarde as Liszt, Song Without End delivers an intriguing look at the inner workings of a creative genius who changed the course of music history. For fans of classical music or historical dramas, this film is not to be missed.

    Famous pianist Franz Liszt (Dirk Bogarde) is unhappily married to Countess Marie D'Agoult (Genevieve Page) and considers quitting performing in order to devote his life to God. However, he then meets Princess Carolyne (Capucine), the wife of Prince Nicholas (Ivan Desny) of Russia, and instantly falls in love with her. Liszt follows the princess on her tour around Europe and eventually leaves his wife, hoping to marry Carolyne. However, Nicolas is not ready to give her up.
  • Rhapsody
    Photo: Rhapsody
    22
    4 votes

    For Fans Of: Romantic dramas, Music, Biographies
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Classical Composers: This 1954 romantic drama highlights the power of classical music, as it becomes the unifying force between star-crossed lovers Louise Durant (Elizabeth Taylor) and James Guest (Vittorio Gassman), who share a deep passion for the works of composers like Rachmaninoff, Beethoven, and Tchaikovsky. With lush cinematography, stunning musical sequences, and heartfelt performances by its leads, Rhapsody showcases the emotional resonance that classical compositions can evoke while presenting an intimate portrait of love and ambition.

    Louise Durant (Elizabeth Taylor), a beautiful heiress living in France, travels to Zurich to be with her boyfriend, Paul Bronte (Vittorio Gassman), a talented young violinist who is finishing his final year at a music conservatory. But when she arrives, she finds Paul is too focused on his career to be in a serious relationship, and is courted by James Guest (John Ericson), an American pianist. Torn between the two men, Louise is forced to make a difficult decision.