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.
There’s a new kid in town, and Nodame had better be on guard. Her new rival plays timpani like a dream–and has the hots for Nodame’s crush, Shinichi Chiaki. Plus, a wretched old man has his eyes (and hands) on Nodame. It’s a lot to handle, for a girl who has trouble just keeping her room clean. . . . Shinichi has his own problems. A famous conductor starts a new orchestra at school, and Shinichi finally gets his chance to conduct. But he soon discovers there’s more to the craft than just following notes on a page. Could this hard lesson unexpectedly turn his life around and change his destiny? Take a look into Nodame’s world and find out!