The academy also offers classes for children, ages 1-16

A serious music academy recently established in Panama promises to become internationally known. The academy, Polifonía, founded by Panamanian pianist Luis Fernando Morales and his wife, French-born Edith Neron, has issued a special invitation to visitors and expats for long or short-term study.

A part of the Exedra Books bookstore complex, located on Vía España and Vía Brasil, in downtown Panama City, Polifonía offers harmony and sight-reading classes to adults, in addition to instrument lessons and music appreciation with the aid of expert teachers. Classes at Polifonía are offered in the evenings. Theory classes are offered in groups, and instrument classes are taught privately.

Children as young as a year old are also welcome at "Musical Kids", the day-time musical academy for youngsters up to 16. Professor Morales teaches the same European methods learned by Mozart as a lad. In addition to sight reading, harmony and private instrument lessons, the academy offers a monthly concert by members of the National Symphony Orchestra.

Approximately 50% of the students at "Polifonía" and "Musical Kids" are foreigners. Most of the staff have been trained abroad, and have a working knowledge of English and French. Professor Morales is fluent in many European languages.

The academy's director, and founder, Panamanian concert pianist Luis Fernando Morales

The director
The academy's director, Luis Fernando Morales, spent over 30 years as a concert pianist in Europe, where he offered more than 300 concerts in 80 cities. Leaving Panama at an early age, Morales settled with his family in Spain, where he took his first lessons. At age 16, he enrolled at Brussels. Conservatory where he studied with some of Europe's most renowned musicians. He returned to Panama in 1993, where he has performed, both as a soloist or as a guest pianist of the National Symphony Orchestra.

Concert Dinners
Along with his wife, professor Morales organizes the "Dinner Concerts" held monthly at Restaurante Il Boccalino, featuring prestigious national and international artists. The next concert will take place on November 14 and will feature Panamanian violinist Graciela Núñez.