Ms. Katarina Schmitt

MUSIC DIRECTOR – Longmont Youth Strings Ensemble

Ms. Katarina Schmitt began her career in music education at the age of 14 when she began teaching violin lessons to younger students in her hometown of Naperville, IL, and it has been her life’s purpose and passion ever since.

Katarina has been active in the music community of Longmont since 2014. She is Director of Orchestras at Mead High School, where she also enjoys teaching AP Music Theory and Guitar. Her orchestras have earned Excellent and Superior ratings at a variety of music festivals across the state. Additionally, Katarina has played in the Longmont Symphony since 2014, has taught lessons at Miller Music Studios (now FUZZ Music Studios), and has served on the board for the LYSO since 2016.

Katarina holds a Bachelor of Music Education degree from St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN, where she graduated magna cum laude and with distinction in the field in 2011. She also holds a Master of Music degree with emphasis in conducting from Colorado State University.

Katarina resides in Northglenn with her husband, Benjamin Durfee, and their two dogs, Gustav and Wolfgang. While he is a CPA by day, Benjamin is also a professional violinist and violist. Together, Katarina and Benjamin comprise the chamber ensemble, “The Durfee Duo.”

Katarina is thrilled to be continuing to serve the musical community of Longmont and looks forward to every opportunity to make music with the wonderful members of the Longmont Youth Strings Ensemble!