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. So far, 19 tankoubon have been released of this manga by Tomoko Ninomiya. This series is published in Japan by Kodansha Comics and in America by Del Rey. Kodansha is also releasing a bilingual manga.

In addition to the anime based on the manga, there has also been a live-action Japanese TV show. It's 23 episodes long.