Karolina “Koko” Shrader is a first-year student originally from Helotes, Texas, pursuing a bachelor of music education and a degree in saxophone performance at the Eastman School of Music under Professor Chien-Kwan Lin. Karolina has previously studied saxophone with Dr. Gilbert Garza of Texas A&M University Kingsville, and studied violin with Mrs. Garcia-Hettinger.

In high school, she served as a drum major in the marching band, and participated in wind ensemble, symphony orchestra, saxophone ensemble, string quartet, jazz band, the Youth Orchestra of San Antonio, and the TMEA 6A All-State Band. Karolina was named Outstanding Performer at the Texas State Solo and Ensemble Contest in 2023, and was named outstanding soloist at numerous jazz festivals.

 In addition to saxophone, Karolina also has experience performing as a violinist and flutist. She participated in high school ensembles with each respective instrument. As a violinist, she has been a guest soloist for the San Antonio Community Orchestra, and a featured soloist at the 2024 TMEA Convention as a part of the Invited Jazz Ensemble.