Music With Moss

Violin and viola lessons in Elgin, IL

Providing students with the tools they need to develop and enhance their love of music

Studio Staff

A Headshot of Moss Grady on a black background. Moss is white, with brown hair and green glasses. They are wearing a purple vest with a white shirt underneath. The background of the picture is black.

Moss DeWitt (they/them) is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison with degrees in Viola Performance and Spanish. They are very excited to be in the Elgin area and offering lessons! Dedicated to nurturing students’ love of music while promoting efficient and comfortable technique, Moss is enthusiastic about guiding students in their music making.

Moss has over three years of formal teaching experience with the Community Lessons Program at UW-Madison and has also taught for the Academy of Music and Art and the Westmont Music Academy. While in school, Moss focused on studying string pedagogy and learning from local teachers. They have also assistant taught group beginning violin classes to first graders. In their time teaching, Moss has had experience working with students ages six through retirement.

This image shows a gray tabby named Gray. She is wearing a blue frilly collar with a floral white background.

Gray, studio manager, is scared of most instruments, people, and loud noises. An accomplished vocalist, Gray is excited to help with lessons!

The image shows a two toned "tortie" cat whose name is Gremlin. She is wearing a white collar with red hearts. The background is plaid.

Gremlin, chief communications officer, loves to meet new people. She can’t wait to say hi (unless anyone is allergic to cats, in which case she will respectfully socially distance).

Testimonials

“Moss has been my 11 year old son’s violin teacher since June of 2023. Moss has been able to keep violin lessons and practice fun and engaging while expanding his skill set – a true balancing act when teaching an 11 year old! Moss often recommended music to learn that he loved, and always was encouraging. My son’s playing has skyrocketed above that of his peers at school who aren’t taking additional lessons, and more importantly, his love of music and playing has drastically increased too. Moss has encouraged him to audition for our youth symphony orchestra and he is so excited! I wholeheartedly recommend Moss for violin instruction. My son often remarked how much he looks forward to lessons”

-Val

“Moss was an incredible first violin teacher for my son (he started when he was eight)! My son is pretty shy around new people and Moss did a wonderful job of drawing him out and making him feel comfortable at every lesson. Moss is not only patient and kind, they provide encouragement and positive feedback throughout each lesson, especially when a piece is tricky or a new skill is being presented. If you are looking for a great beginner instructor, I would highly recommend Moss”

-Amy

FAQs

  • I teach ages 5 and up.

  • I would love to offer group classes! Please contact me with your interest, and we can discuss that possibility.

  • Lessons are located in my home studio in Elgin, IL, near St. Edward High School.

  • Parents are encouraged, but not required to attend lessons. Attendance is especially encouraged for elementary-aged students in order for parents to help with practice at home.

  • Yes! I am neurodivergent myself, so I enjoy working with students who may learn differently. I have taught students with ASD and ADHD. In these situations, I like to work with the student and their parents to determine what they need to find success and enjoy their time in lessons.

  • Yes! Siblings are welcome if it is necessary due to childcare needs for them to come to lessons. Parents must supervise students’ siblings at all times. I have some quiet toys and activities for children to play with while they wait.

  • Yes, I occasionally have some instruments students can borrow, but it is best to buy or rent an instrument for lessons. Kenneth Stein Violins and Austin’s Violin Shop are two great local businesses to buy or rent instruments from.

Contact Me

Please contact me with any inquiries