music is an essential element in the carioca culture, so much so that it is present in the various genres listened by locals and visitors - aside from the set establishments offering live music, there is a diverse repertoire of impromptu musical performances by local and international street artists scattered around the city.

along the main streets of rio de janeiro, musically-driven artists, such as musicians and dancers, can be found given passers-by a taste of their unique talent - amongst the most common performers, one can find drag queens interpreting famous singers, as well as soloist playing instruments including but not limited to guitars, saxophones, accordions, and pan flutes.

brazil's neighboring countries are home to different genres with many natives traveling to visit the marvelous city and exposing their background through the use of music - andean based instrumentalists from countries such as peru, bolivia, colombia, are common acts playing the pan flute and guitar - argentinians and chileans are also popularly showcasing their melodic talent.