The son of a famous pianist, music student Shinichi Chiaki dreams of studying abroad and becoming a conductor like his mentor. Unfortunately, his fear of flying grounds his lofty plans! As he watches other classmates achieve what he has always wanted, Shinichi wonders if he should quit music altogether. Then one day he meets fellow student Megumi Noda, also known as Nodame. This oddball girl cannot cook, clean, or even read a music score, but she can play the piano in incomparable Cantabile style. And she teaches Chiaki something that he has forgotten: to enjoy his music, no matter where he is.
Nodame and Chiaki are studying music in Paris–but the real drama is happening outside the classroom! As Chiaki’s life is about to take a surprising turn, Nodame makes a new friend, a homesick Chinese exchange student. And it’s not long before Nodame and her buddy land in a heap of trouble at the local Italian restaurant.