In Panama, the most important representation of classical music is the National Symphony Orchestra of Panama, founded in 1941. Since that time, this group has been composed of classically-trained musicians that played "for the love of the art". Today, the orchestra has at least 64 musicians hired on a permanent basis, thanks to the government and private patrons.

Another entity representing classical music in Panama is The National Concert Association, founded in 1962 and inscribed as a Non-Profit Organization in 1973. With the help of renowned musicians from across the world, the association has been able to fortify Panamanian musical culture through their International Concerts Season from April to October, as well as academic opportunities to aspiring musicians of all ages.