Shinichi Chiaki is a first class musician whose dream is to play among
the elites in Europe. Coming from a distinguished family, he is an
infamous perfectionist; not only is he highly critical of himself, but
of others as well. The only thing stopping Chiaki from leaving for
Europe is his fear of flying. As a result, he's grounded in Japan.

During his 4th year at Japan's top music university, Chiaki happens to
meet Noda Megumi; or as she refers to herself, Nodame. On the surface,
she seems to be an unkempt girl with no direction in life. However, when
Chiaki hears Nodame play the piano for the first time, he is in awe at
the kind of music she plays. To Chiaki's dismay, Nodame moves into the
apartment next to his and finds out that she is head over heels in love
with him.

Nodame Cantabile tells the story of Chiaki and Nodame, as they not only
learn to deal with each other, but learn lessons from one another as
they strive for the top of the musical world.