Nodame Cantabile Season 1 Episode 15 Change
- July 27, 2010
Nodame Cantabile season 1 episode 15 titled "Change" is all about the characters dealing with a turning point in their musical journeys. The episode begins with Chiaki giving a speech at the graduation ceremony. He talks about the students' growth, how he's learned a lot from them, and how they will all remember their time at the school of music. He then tells them that he's leaving the school to pursue his dream of conducting in Europe, which shocks everyone.
Chiaki's departure means that everyone will have to deal with changes. Nodame, who has been portrayed as a somewhat passive character, decides that she must take the initiative to change her own life. She sets a goal to become a pianist and practices with a newfound enthusiasm, starting to take control of her life and her future. Nodame's desire to improve her skills culminates in a performance that is awe-inspiring and shows how much she has improved.
At the same time, Chiaki is so focused on fulfilling his dream of conducting that he neglects the relationship he has with Nodame. He is preoccupied with making everything perfect, and he forgets that Nodame is the person who has supported him throughout. When he finally gets a chance to get back to Japan, he realizes that he needs to put Nodame back into his life. He, therefore, apologizes to her and makes his plans to return to Europe, but this time with Nodame by his side.
The episode also explores the theme of Change in more depth. It looks at the various students' struggles with adjusting to new goals, plans, and lifestyles. Kuroki, who used to be in the orchestra with Chiaki, decides that he wants to pursue a different career, thereby disappointing Chiaki, who used to think highly of him. Contrastingly, Strezemann, a conductor, has to deal with the fact that he might not be needed for performances, and he has to come up with new ways to stay relevant.
In the end, the episode leaves a feeling of optimism that even though change can be hard, it can also be an opportunity for growth as it allows people to push themselves beyond what they thought was possible. Nodame, Chiaki and the other characters all emerge stronger for having undergone the changes and challenges in their lives.
In conclusion, "Change" marks a significant turning point in the show, both in terms of plot and character growth. The episode shows how the characters in the show must confront their fears and weaknesses to become better musicians and people. The struggle, however, is not always easy, and the show never shies away from exploring the realistic hardships and consequences of these changes. Nonetheless, the show is optimistic, showing that change can bring newfound joy and success. Overall, "Change" is an emotionally resonant episode that continues to showcase what makes Nodame Cantabile such a great series.