Urgent: Houston Music Teachers Owed Thousands After Vivaldi Closure

URGENT UPDATE: Dozens of former music teachers in Houston are now facing financial uncertainty after the abrupt closure of the Vivaldi Music Academy on October 12, 2023. Teachers report being owed thousands of dollars in back wages, with some claiming they may never see their money again.

The renowned music school, which boasted three locations in Houston and one in San Antonio, informed parents late Thursday that it would cease operations immediately. This news has left many educators scrambling and anxious about their unpaid salaries. Reports indicate that some teachers are owed upwards of $30,000, with estimates suggesting between 50 to 75 teachers across Texas are impacted.

Former teacher Sam Rachleff, a Rice University senior, stated, “I’m owed probably over $3,000, and there are plenty of other teachers who are owed a lot more.” Fellow educator Mohammed Numan echoed these concerns, revealing that some teachers have accrued debts due to unpaid wages, with one teacher claiming to be owed as much as $30,000. “I know people who have gotten evicted. I know people who have had their cars repossessed over Vivaldi not paying them,” Numan said.

Prior to its closure, Vivaldi faced mounting issues with delayed payments. Teachers had begun to voice their concerns about late salaries, a situation that became increasingly dire after the school closed its Bellaire and Memorial branches earlier this year. The fears of financial instability were well-founded, according to insiders.

The charismatic founder, Zeljko Pavlovic, who built the academy on a compelling narrative of resilience, now faces scrutiny. While he had previously garnered attention for his success story, court records indicate a troubling pattern. Pavlovic has faced multiple lawsuits for fraud and unpaid loans, including a recent lawsuit filed in July 2023 for failing to repay a $2.6 million promissory note.

Despite mounting concerns, Pavlovic released a statement emphasizing Vivaldi’s commitment to its educators and the community. “Every educator who contributed to this community will be treated with fairness, accuracy, and respect,” he stated, adding that they are finalizing outstanding contractor payments.

The fallout from Vivaldi’s closure has left many teachers feeling betrayed. “It was the dream job,” said former teacher Todd Blackmon. “I really tried to make it work, but something changed. We don’t know what actually happened or what the moment was.” Rachleff summed up the emotional toll, stating, “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.”

As former teachers band together to explore their options, the immediate future remains uncertain. Many are left wondering if they will ever receive the payment they are owed. The situation is developing, and updates are expected as more details emerge.

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