Michael Klotz Will Join Cleveland Institute Faculty

The acclaimed violist and longtime Amernet String Quartet member is set to begin his role at the institution in Fall 2027.

Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Classical

Michael Klotz Will Join Cleveland Institute Faculty

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Starting in Fall 2027, violist Michael Klotz will join the faculty at the Cleveland Institute of Music. Prior to his official appointment, he will serve as a guest lecturer at the institution throughout the 2026-27 academic year.

Why it matters

The appointment expands the teaching resources for viola students, who will benefit from shared instruction between Klotz and current faculty member Wesley Collins. This addition connects the local music community to Klotz's extensive international experience in chamber music and performance.

Michael Klotz has been a member of the Amernet String Quartet since 2002 and earned master's degrees in violin and viola from The Juilliard School that same year. He previously made his solo debut with the Rochester Philharmonic at age 17.

The players

Michael Klotz

He is an accomplished violist and long-standing member of the Amernet String Quartet who currently serves as a Teaching Professor at Florida International University.

Cleveland Institute of Music

Located in Cleveland, Ohio, this conservatory provides comprehensive musical training and advanced degree programs for students pursuing careers in the performing arts.

Wesley Collins

He is a faculty member at the Cleveland Institute of Music who will provide shared studio instruction alongside Michael Klotz.

The details

Klotz currently holds the position of Teaching Professor and Artist-in-Residence at Florida International University. Upon his arrival in Cleveland, he will collaborate with Wesley Collins to provide joint studio instruction for prospective students.

Michael Klotz joined the Amernet String Quartet in 2002.
He serves as a guest lecturer at the Cleveland Institute of Music during the 2026-27 academic year.
He officially joins the viola faculty in Fall 2027.
Klotz will also join the Keshet Eilon String Summer Mastercourse faculty in 2027.

Industry Dynamics

Conservatories increasingly rely on professional performers to maintain high-level artistic reputations while navigating the competitive landscape of classical music education. The appointment of Michael Klotz follows a trend of bringing seasoned quartet members into academia to bolster studio prestige.

Students and the local community can expect to see Klotz in the classroom as a guest lecturer starting in the 2026-27 academic year. Those interested in his instructional style will have the opportunity to engage with his pedagogy through the shared studio program beginning in 2027.

The takeaway

The addition of an artist with dual expertise in violin and viola creates a more versatile learning environment for conservatory students. Prospective music students looking for specialized instruction may find this dual-instructor studio model particularly advantageous.