chiaki shinichi

Birthdate: February 17th, 1981
Zodiac sign: Aquarius
Height: 181cm
Blood type: O
Chiaki is a 21-year-old third-year piano student at Momogaoka Music Academy when the series begins. He is a highly skilled pianist and violinist, though he is known for his perfectionism and critical nature towards himself and others. Coming from a wealthy and distinguished family, Chiaki is also a competent cook. He tends to view people with less financial means, like Sakura Saku, as being similar to the little match girl.
Chiaki dreams of studying abroad and becoming a renowned conductor like his mentor, Sebastiano Viella. However, he must overcome his fear of flying and the sea to achieve this goal, which he eventually does with Nodame's help through hypnosis.
He is initially dismayed to learn that the eccentric but talented Nodame lives in the apartment next door. Over time, Chiaki discovers Nodame's hidden potential as a pianist and starts to empathize with her. This helps him move beyond his perfectionism and begin appreciating her music and the music of others.
Despite frequently feeling irritated by Nodame, Chiaki gradually develops romantic feelings for her. He decides to pursue a career as a conductor in Paris, where he plans to study. As he works toward his ambition of becoming a conductor, Chiaki realizes he needs Nodame’s support and cannot progress without her. He has a deep-seated fear of abandonment, stemming from being left by his father as a child. This fear leads him to often abandon others first, particularly Nodame. Additionally, he fears being surpassed by Nodame, causing him to distance himself from her, which leaves her feeling miserable as she tries to catch up. Chiaki can also come across as insensitive.