CARUSO, Michael J., age 76, of Springfield, passed away on May 24, 2026.

Beloved son of the late Michael R. Caruso and Angelina Caruso (née Russo). He is survived by his brother, Robert J. “Bob” Caruso and his wife, Sandra, of Richboro.

Michael was a graduate of the Philadelphia College of Performing Arts and received his Master of Music degree from the Peabody Institute of The Johns Hopkins University.

Michael was a respected member of the Settlement Music School family for four decades, known for his wit, warmth, and extraordinary love of music. He joined Settlement’s piano faculty 40 years ago and, from his second-floor studio at the Mary Louise Curtis Branch, built something rare: a teaching life measured not in years, but in generations.

He taught children who grew up and later brought their own children to him. Michael had the gift of making every student — young or old, beginner or advanced — feel welcomed, supported, and capable of more than they imagined, always with laughter along the way. He was proud to say, “I am not one teacher for all, but a different teacher for each of my students.”

For nine years, he served as a Faculty Council representative for the Mary Louise Curtis Branch. Michael was also a classical music critic for the Chestnut Hill Local, Main Line Times, and News of Delaware County, where he reviewed the Philadelphia Orchestra, Opera Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Ballet, the Curtis Institute of Music, and more.

Michael was equally devoted in his faith — a deeply engaged member of Old St. Joseph’s Church in Philadelphia, where he served as lector and altar server and was widely regarded as a pillar of that community. He also frequently attended St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Chestnut Hill, where he had many friends.

Michael loved to engage everyone in conversation, and if you were willing to participate, it was guaranteed to be a long discussion. He was extremely knowledgeable on many subjects and never let an opportunity pass to offer his opinion. His family and friends will certainly miss these treasured moments.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Settlement Music School 416 Queen St Philadelphia Pa 19147 or the charity of your choice.

Relatives and friends are invited to pay their respects on July 17, 2026, at Old St. Joseph’s Church, 321 Willings Alley, Society Hill, Philadelphia. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM, followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00 AM precisely.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Ronald Rex Piselli Funeral Chapels, Inc.