This year we are pleased to welcome our new Suzuki Violin instructor, Betsy Karako. This popular program was started in 2013 and began with only 27 students, and has now grown to over 135 students, ranging in ages 3-14.

Students typically begin the program in PK, K, or 1st Grade. Students in PK through 3rd grade receive two violin classes a week in addition to general music classes. Students in 4th and 5th grade choose between continuing violin and general music class. Middle school students meet twice a week before school.

The students get many opportunities to perform both in school and off-site, while they learn and grow as musicians. Outside performances include Busch Stadium, Botanical Gardens, and nursing homes in the St. Louis area.

Students do not automatically get to start violin group classes with Ms. Karako when they become a student at SMOS. For information on how to sign your child up for violin classes please contact Betsy Karako directly at bkarako@stmargaretstl.org.