BREAKING: Dozens of former music teachers from the now-closed Vivaldi Music Academy in Houston are demanding thousands of dollars in back wages after the school abruptly shuttered its doors on October 19, 2023. Teachers report being owed amounts ranging from $3,000 to approximately $30,000 each, raising concerns about their financial futures.
The sudden closure, confirmed by Vivaldi on Thursday afternoon, left many educators in shock. The academy had maintained multiple locations, including three in Houston and one in San Antonio. “We received calls saying the school would close immediately,” one former teacher stated, highlighting the desperate situation.
Rumors had circulated for months about late or missing payments, particularly after the Bellaire and Memorial branches closed earlier this year. Former teacher Sam Rachleff, a Rice University student, shared, “I’m owed over $3,000, and many others are owed even more.” Fellow teacher Mohammed Numan estimates that around 50 to 75 teachers across Texas are affected by this financial crisis.
Some teachers have resorted to forming chat groups to explore their options. “I know people who have been evicted and had their cars repossessed over Vivaldi not paying them,” Numan said, emphasizing the dire personal impact of the academy’s closure.
The emotional toll is evident. Teachers like Todd Blackmon reflect on their initial optimism, with Blackmon stating, “It was the dream job… but something changed.” Many teachers are frustrated with Zeljko Pavlovic, Vivaldi’s founder, whose charismatic public persona masked ongoing financial issues. Court records reveal that Pavlovic has faced multiple lawsuits, including a recent lawsuit in July for failing to repay a $2.6 million promissory note.
In an official statement released Friday evening, Pavlovic maintained that Vivaldi has been a cornerstone of Houston’s arts community and assured that “every educator will be treated with fairness.” However, the teachers remain skeptical, with Rachleff expressing anger over broken promises and unpaid wages.
As the situation unfolds, the future of these educators remains uncertain. Many are left questioning their next steps and the viability of pursuing legal action. “People are sold this promise of teaching and getting paid well, but it all falls through,” Rachleff lamented.
WHAT’S NEXT: Teachers are now watching closely to see if Vivaldi will fulfill its promises regarding outstanding payments. The urgency of the situation continues to grow as more educators come forward with claims. For the latest updates, follow local news sources and social media channels.
