A native of Saint Paul, MN, Karen Kozak (née Krueger) has been hard at work for over 10 years teaching and performing regionally. She received her bachelor of music from the University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point where she studied violin with Steve Bjella and viola with Dee Martz. In 2016, Karen completed her Master of Music in violin performance at McNally Smith College of Music where she explored non-classical styles of string playing with Randy Sabien. As a performer, Karen mostly focuses on her work with Useful Jenkins, but can be found performing with a number of local groups of varying genres. In addition, she is the founding violist of the Supertet string quartet and has previously held the position of principal viola in both the Mississippi Valley Orchestra and Kenwood Symphony. Her ability on both instruments and in many different styles make studio sessions and guest appearance a highlight of her creative career. By day she holds her dream job, teaching orchestra at Robbinsdale Middle School and coaching a non-classical ensemble. In 2021, Karen earned a Masters os Education in Instructional Design through Western Governors University. In addition, she continues to teach private violin and viola lessons to students from kindergarten through adult at her home.