The purpose of this study is to investigate the historical development of Brazilian music education legislation in relation to the Brazilian public school, Colégio Pedro II. Located in Rio de Janeiro, Colégio Pedro II has consistently offered music instruction since its inception in 1837. The historical narrative presented in this article details the shifting nature of educational legislation in Brazil and its subsequent implementation at Colégio Pedro II from 1837 to 2011. A unique perspective is provided, offering insights into the role and function of music instruction in both the state of Rio de Janeiro and in the nation of Brazil. The research seeks to explain the motivations and intentions behind the drafting of different educational laws and discusses the manner in which these laws are realized at Colégio Pedro II. Because of the dearth of English language sources regarding this topic, the results of this study contribute to the broader academic understanding of the historical development of music education in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.