Piano Masterclass: Dr. Vivian Anderson

Known for her imaginative and colorful performances, Dr. Vivian Anderson is emerging as both a performer and teacher with dazzling artistry and intellectual depth. A native of Ann Arbor, Michigan, she was surrounded by the arts at a young age and began piano lessons at age five after teaching herself to read music. In 2024, she started her own private music studio, Animato Piano Academy, where she aims to provide high-quality piano instruction to South Austin students. She also teaches part-time at Clavier-Werke
School of Music.

In addition to teaching, Dr. Anderson enjoys performing and speaking about music. She is particularly interested in 20th century music and has done extensive research and performance of piano works by French composer Olivier Messiaen. Her doctoral dissertation analyzed religious symbolism in Messiaen’s monumental Vingt regards sur l’Enfant Jésus, and she also performed his Quatuor pour la fin du temps for her doctoral chamber recital. She is also passionate about championing works by women composers. Her doctoral lecture recital, A Dialogue with the Past, discussed recent works by Caroline Shaw and Cheryl Frances-Hoad.

Dr. Anderson has a keen interest in bettering her community through music. She and her fiancé, Aaron Kurz, can often be seen performing benefit and outreach concerts around Austin. They have partnered with charities such as the Texas Hill Country Community Foundation and Casa Marianella.

Dr. Anderson holds a Bachelor of Music in piano performance from the University of Michigan, a Master of Music in piano performance from Indiana University, and a Doctor of Music in piano performance from Florida State University. Her hobbies outside of music include cooking, reading, crafting, and spending time with friends.