at a glance

the school's diverse focus ranges from traditional to contemporary music, with an emphasis on brazilian music -  many of the concerts are a direct result of the academic activities developed by teachers and students, and it is offered to the public free of charge in its three concert halls. 

nearby on rua do lavradio, visitors can also see the sala cecília meireles, which is considered to be the best chamber music hall in rio, and often home to important musical events. this neighborhood is also home to the headquarters of several brazilian multinationals, as well as many modern commercial buildings. this, along with a renewed interest in the area by the city government, has spurred a new wave of development of high-quality housing projects, the restoration of long abandoned buildings, and the opening of several new bars, restaurants, and music establishments.