Urgent: Vivaldi Music Academy Closes, Teachers Owed Thousands

BREAKING: Dozens of former music teachers from the now-closed Vivaldi Music Academy in Houston, Texas are demanding payment for thousands of dollars in back wages after the school abruptly shut down on October 19, 2023. The sudden closure has left teachers fearing they may never see the money they are owed.

Vivaldi, once a prominent music school with three locations in Houston and one in San Antonio, informed parents of its immediate closure, catching many teachers off guard. Since the announcement, former instructors have reached out to ABC13, revealing they are collectively owed substantial amounts. Reports indicate that Sam Rachleff, a Rice University senior, is owed over $3,000, while others claim debts ranging from $5,000 to $30,000.

URGENT IMPACT: With estimates suggesting that between 50 to 75 teachers across Texas are affected, the financial fallout is severe. Many have formed groups to strategize their next steps, as some teachers face dire consequences due to unpaid wages. “I know people who have gotten evicted. I know people who have had their cars repossessed over Vivaldi not paying them,” said former teacher Mohammed Numan.

The closure follows months of troubling rumors about late payments and financial instability. Historically, the academy, founded by Zeljko Pavlovic, built a reputation through a compelling narrative of resilience and success. However, court records reveal a different story—Pavlovic has faced multiple lawsuits for fraud and unpaid debts, including a recent suit filed in July 2023 for a $2.6 million promissory note.

Teachers expressed their disbelief as they reflect on Vivaldi’s promising beginnings. “In the beginning, when I started, it was the dream job,” said former teacher Todd Blackmon. “I really tried to make it work, but something changed.” The emotional toll is palpable as teachers recount their dedication to sharing music with students while grappling with unpaid wages.

In a statement released on October 20, 2023, Pavlovic acknowledged the school’s transition and assured that all outstanding payments would be addressed with fairness and respect. “Every educator who contributed to this community will be treated with fairness, accuracy, and respect,” he stated. However, this assurance has done little to quell the frustrations of those who feel betrayed by the institution they once believed in.

Teachers are now left to navigate the aftermath of a sudden closure while grappling with financial hardships. “People are sold this promise of ‘I can teach, do what I love, and I have these students and I can get paid well for that,’ and it all falls through because people aren’t getting paid,” Rachleff lamented.

As the situation develops, affected teachers are urged to seek legal counsel and explore their options for recovering owed wages. The emotional and financial implications of Vivaldi’s closure extend beyond the classroom, affecting the personal lives of many who dedicated themselves to music education.

Stay updated on this developing story for more information on the future of the former Vivaldi Music Academy teachers and their fight for justice. For live updates, follow Miya Shay on Facebook, X, and Instagram.