What sets us apart?
Educational Philosophy
All of the programs at CLC are first and foremost academic in nature. Our entire organizational structure from the top down comprises only of educators who have devoted their lives to supporting the arts. This unique dynamic allows us to focus on effective and comprehensive instruction rather than delivering a business product. Our vision is for every student to have obtained life-long skills that will carry them beyond our programs.
Experienced Instructors
All of our teachers have either obtained a minimum of a Master's Degrees or have had extensive teaching experience. Applicants go through a rigorous interview process before joining the CLC faculty team. The instructors have spent many years honing their teaching skills and are passionate about imparting musical knowledge and artistry to their students. In addition to their teaching responsibilities, they maintain performance schedules both locally and internationally, and contribute to the music field as college professors, musicologists, adjudicators, advocates, church musicians, and school teachers.
Spacious Facilities
CLC resides in a spacious facility in the convenient Spring Branch area of Houston. Our gorgeous recital hall seats 250 and is equipped with beautiful Yamaha and Steinway grand pianos and state-of-the-art recording equipment. While students take lessons in one of our 14 roomy studios, family members may relax in one of our comfortable waiting areas.
Performance Opportunities
All of our students are encouraged to perform at least twice a semester, giving students opportunities to share what they learn with family and friends. One out of the 2 organized performances is generally outreach driven, as CLC's mission is enrich the Houston community. This is in addition to the semester-end performance. CLC private students have a mandatory semester recital through their respective teachers. Intermediate to advanced level students are also prepared by individual teachers to participate in local, regional, and international exams and auditions in order to stay sharp in their skills. We maintain a close relationship with the Houston Symphony and other nonprofit arts organizations in order to provide collaborative opportunities for our students.
Creative Curriculum
All of our programs aim to unleash the creative artist in each individual through personalized instruction. We offer group and private lessons all geared towards developing and improving a student’s listening, motor, and coordination skills. We offer instruction in piano, violin, viola, guitar, voice, flute, clarinet, saxophone, and harp. Theory instruction is also provided for students who wish to participate in ABRSM, an internationally recognized music placement exam, along with other national competitions and auditions.
Quality Instruments
We know the importance of playing on quality instruments and want the very best for our students. Towards that end, we are strong partners Steinway Gallery of Houston in becoming a Steinway-only school. We are very proud of the current Steinway, Boston, and Essex pianos in house, generously provided by our donor, underwriters, parents and funders. Interested in becoming a active partner with our school? Please contact natalie@clc-houston.org to learn about how you can make a difference in Houston through CLC's mission.
Professional Affiliations
We are authorized dealers for Hal Leonard, Alfred, FJH Music Company, Peters Editions Ltd, ABRSM publishing and more. Our teachers are members of MTNA (Music Teacher National Association) and TMTA (Texas Music Teacher Association), HTMA (Houston Music Teacher Association), The Piano Guild, and FTMA (Forum Teacher Music Association). Our program director, Ms. Natalie Voogt, is also the appointed Texas representative for ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music).