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.
Summer is supposed to be a time for relaxation, but lifechanging events are in store for Nodame and her friends. She’s about to play her very first recital–at the château of a Mozartobsessed, cosplayloving Frenchman! Meanwhile, Chiaki is making big plans for his orchestra, Kuroki is rehearsing for a major audition, and Tanya is looking for love in all the wrong places. How will they ever survive this summer “vacation”?