About Superior Academy of Music – Award-Winning Music School in Miami
Music School in Miami
LED BY CONCERT PIANISTS. BUILT FOR EXCELLENCE.
Founded in 2011 by husband-and-wife team Dr. William Villaverde and Dr. Fabiana Claure, Superior Academy of Music (SAM) was created to provide students of all ages with a complete and inspiring music education.
As internationally acclaimed concert pianists and educators, Dr. Villaverde and Dr. Claure have taught over 1,000 students—from absolute beginners to advanced college-level musicians. Both hold Doctor of Musical Arts degrees from the University of Miami’s Frost School of Music, where they also served as teaching assistants. They completed their master’s and artist diplomas at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, and began their musical journey with Bachelor of Arts degrees from the College of Charleston.
Through years of teaching across the United States, they noticed a gap in pre-college music education—a lack of well-rounded programs that combine technical skill with musical literacy. SAM was born to bridge that gap.
OUR MISSION
We believe music isn’t just about learning an instrument. It’s about becoming a well-rounded musician.
That’s why every student at SAM receives a comprehensive curriculum that includes private lessons and weekly musicianship classes. These classes cover music theory, ear training, and history—helping students not just play, but understand and truly enjoy music.
Whether your goal is a professional career in music or a meaningful extracurricular outlet, our program meets you where you are and helps you grow from there.
EXPERT FACULTY. INSPIRING ENVIRONMENT.
All of our instructors hold advanced degrees in music and have years of experience teaching students from elementary school to college. Many are also active performers with national and international recognition.
Lessons are held in professional, soundproof studios equipped with Kawai grand and digital pianos. Our classrooms use interactive tools to create a fun, immersive learning experience.
A PATHWAY TO NATIONAL CERTIFICATION
SAM is a Founding School of the Royal Conservatory Certificate Program—the national standard for music education at the pre-college level.
Students prepare for these exams throughout the year and take the assessments right here at our school, which also serves as an official RCM testing center. Successful students receive certificates and detailed written feedback from experts across the globe.
Dean Shelton Berg of the University of Miami’s Frost School of Music praised SAM’s curriculum as “a philosophy of teaching music that is very comprehensive,” noting that students gain valuable skills beyond just instrument instruction—including ear training and music history.
STUDENT SUCCESS
Our students have earned scholarships and acceptance to top music schools, including:
• Berklee College of Music (Boston)
• Frost School of Music at the University of Miami
• Florida State University College of Music
• New World School of the Arts
SAM students have also performed at prestigious venues such as Carnegie Hall and earned awards in international competitions. Many receive top marks in Royal Conservatory assessments—earning Center and State Certificates of Excellence.
IN THE MEDIA
Superior Academy of Music and its founders have been featured twice on national television by PBS’s Nightly Business Report, as well as in local publications including the Miami Herald, Pinecrest Tribune, KnightArts Blog, and Business Miami Magazine.
Click here to view our full press coverage.
Watch the music school Directors’ full performance featured on PBS!
WHAT OUR STUDENTS AND PARENTS SAY
“At SAM, music is taught in a fun and comprehensive way by expert teachers. SAM has helped my son find his life in music. Under their caring and capable hands, he has flourished, become a well-rounded musician, and found his calling. Even if a student does not plan to pursue a career in music, SAM provides all the tools needed to become an accomplished musician.”
— Cecilia De Botton
“A great place to learn piano and other musical instruments. They offer individual and group courses, and the studio rooms are soundproofed. The instructors are very friendly and skilled—I learned a lot from them. Students also have many opportunities to join different events every year. I’m glad I attended here!”
— Weihan Dong
