Shinichi Chiaki is a first‑class musician whose dream is to perform among the elite in Europe. Coming from a distinguished family, he is an infamous perfectionist, constantly critical of himself and others. The only thing preventing him from going to Europe is his fear of flying, so he remains grounded in Japan. In his fourth year at Japan's top music university, Chiaki meets Noda Megumi, who calls herself Nodame. She appears to be an unkempt girl lacking direction, but when Chiaki hears her play the piano for the first time, he is astonished by the music she produces. To Chiaki's dismay, Nodame moves into the apartment next to his.