They Shall Have Music

Young Frankie and his small gang engage in minor crimes such as stealing bicycles and taking money from other boys in their New York City neighborhood. Their activities are typical of kids seeking excitement and asserting independence. Willy, one of the boys, reports their crimes to his father, drawing the attention of Frankie's family.

Frankie discovers an old violin in his basement, which he used to play when his father was around. He pawns the instrument to get money, attempting to contribute to his gang’s funds. This act marks his desire to pursue music and leave petty crime behind.

Pulling a clever move, Frankie and Limey hide in a concert hall lobby to escape police pursuit. When a dispute causes a couple to discard their tickets, the boys decide to enter and attend the concert. Frankie is captivated by violin virtuoso Jascha Heifetz, inspiring his fascination with music.

Inspired by the concert, Frankie notices his violin in a pawn shop window and decides to retrieve it. He secretly steals his gang’s spare change to buy it back, demonstrating his desire to reconnect with his passion for music. His stepfather mistakenly believes Frankie stole the money and destroys his violin in anger.

Devastated by the destruction of his beloved violin, Frankie runs away from home. He packs his shoe shine kit into an empty violin case, symbolizing his hopes and aspirations. His escape marks a turning point toward seeking a better life through music.

Frankie stumbles upon Professor Lawson’s music school, designed for underprivileged children. Recognizing Frankie’s perfect pitch, Lawson offers him the opportunity to learn and develop his musical talent. Frankie is eager and overwhelmed but grateful for the chance to pursue his dreams.

The music school’s financial situation worsens after the sponsor’s death, leading to unpaid bills and a shortage of instruments. The school relies on rented instruments from the stingy Mr. Flower, who is concerned about unpaid fees and sends a clerk to collect payment. The school's future hangs in the balance.

Frankie overhears a conversation about the school’s financial crisis and takes matters into his own hands. He organizes a street band with other students to raise money, setting up next to a concert hall, believing the audience there will be receptive. His initiative demonstrates his leadership and enthusiasm for music.

Frankie recognizes Jascha Heifetz and shares the school’s story with him. Impressed, Heifetz offers to send a film of himself playing to support the school. The incident causes confusion among creditors, who mistakenly believe Heifetz is the school's sponsor, raising hopes for its future.

When creditors, including Mr. Flower, realize that Heifetz is not actually sponsoring the school, tensions rise. Frankie and his friends attempt to persuade Heifetz to perform at the upcoming fundraising concert, believing his involvement could save the school. Their efforts highlight the importance of music and community support.

Amidst the chaos, Limey steals a valuable Stradivarius violin from Heifetz as a gift for Frankie. Unaware of its significance, Limey’s theft adds to the drama, and Frankie feels compelled to return it, which results in his detention by the police. The stolen violin symbolizes the value of true music over material wealth.

Despite his detention, Frankie manages to convince Heifetz to perform at the upcoming concert. Heifetz’s appearance and performance inspire the audience, bringing hope that the school will be supported by the famous violinist’s influence. The event signifies a pivotal moment for the school’s future.

Heifetz’s live performance at the concert captivates the audience and impresses the school community. His involvement helps to secure the school’s sponsorship, demonstrating the transformative power of music and the community’s backing. The film ends on a hopeful note for the students’ future.