Payam Susanni, a native Turkish pianist and teacher, joined the Clavier Werke School of Music in 2000. She received her Bachelor of Music degree from Dokuz Eylul University Conservatory in Turkey where she studied  with Dr. Nilgun Alkan and in 2000 she completed her Master’s Degree in Piano Performance at the University of Texas at Austin  where she Studied  with Prof. David Renner.

During the completion of her degrees she participated in Master Classes of Frank Henegan, Barry Snyder, Philippe Bush and  the Audubon String Quartet. She was also awarded both teaching and accompanying scholarships, and worked as a Teaching assistant to Prof. Sophia Gilmson and Prof. Martha Hilley. She has performed extensively as a soloist and Chamber Musician in the United States and Turkey.

Payam believes that making music should consist of not only playing the instrument of choice, but also combining this experience with technique, theory, history and of course, fun! “I encourage my students to taste all different flavors and kinds of music. I am here to guide them in the exploration of their senses and combining these with creativity. Most of all, I am here to help them enjoy this wonderful journey. “

Mrs. Susanni is a member of Austin District Music Federal Association, and also maintains affiliations with the Texas Music Teachers Association, the National Music Teachers Association, and the National Guild of Piano Teachers. She also enjoys judging for different music festivals and competitions in the Austin Area.

She loves living in Austin with her husband Paolo Susanni and their daughter Mia. She formed the “Susanni Piano Duo” with her husband in 2000 and the couple has been performing ever since.