The Matchstick Man is an atmospheric profile affording a perceptive and illuminating glimpse into György Kurtág's world. A very private man who usually shies away from discussing himself and his work, Kurtág communicates his all-consuming passion for music and deep involvement in the world of sound to director Judit Kele. He is seen teaching and working with musicians - including his wife Márta, Adrienne Csengery or Claudio Abbado conducting the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra. Other contributors to the program include the pianist Zoltán Kocsis, composers György Ligeti, András Szőllősy, László Vidovszky and Zoltán Jeney, as well as students of Kurtág.