MadCity Viola & Violin Studio · Madison, WI
Private viola and violin lessons for children, teens, and adults near Verona, WI. Melissa Gregory-Simon has 40 years of experience giving warm, personalized instruction.
of private instruction
children, teens & adults
home studio · Mon–Thu
Teaching Philosophy
“I watch my students closely. I set up each step in small, manageable increments — and then I am right there with praise.”
My students figure out very quickly how closely I watch them — and they also learn that I am looking for the “good stuff.” As they come to realize that I only teach in steps that are reasonable for them to achieve, they learn to trust me.
They know, through repeated experience, that I want to see them do well. This knowledge brings out the best in children. They discover they can do more than they ever thought they were capable of.
To always look for the good in everything a student does is rewarding to me — and makes learning a nurturing experience for the student.
“I get right down on the floor with them. Whatever it takes to make the lesson a success.”
Ages 3–5
Young children learn through play, imitation, and repetition. I use a Suzuki-inspired approach that involves parents as home practice partners, with short, joyful lessons designed for short attention spans and big curiosity.
Ages 6–18
The heart of my studio. Students develop real technique, musicianship, and the discipline to work toward goals — while having genuine fun. WYSO audition preparation available for students pursuing youth orchestra.
Adults · All Levels
It is never too late to learn. I specialize in helping adult beginners and returning players set realistic, meaningful goals and make steady progress — at a pace that fits your life.
What Happens in a Lesson
About Melissa
Born into a family that has produced musicians for generations, I also come from a long line of teachers. I like to think that I bring the best of both into my profession.
I have been teaching privately since 1987 — and I still find it as fascinating and rewarding as I did on day one. My students never stop surprising me. Their inventive ways of describing the world of learning to play the violin are something I treasure.
I love teaching and I love to talk about it. Please feel free to reach out with any questions at all.
Education
B.M. Performance — DePaul University
M.M. Performance — Roosevelt University
Performance
Civic Orchestra of Chicago, 1983–1994
Rockford Symphony Orchestra, 1984–1986
Private Instruction: 1987 – present · 40 years · Viola and Violin · All ages and levels
In Their Own Words
My students never fail to amaze me. Their inventive approaches to describing the world of learning to play must be shared.
“It sounded good back when I couldn’t tell an A from a G!”
— A student“It’s not just here that I don’t think!”
— A student“That listening thing really helps me play.”
— A student“Is it upside-down? Oh, it is upside-down!”
— A student“I don’t think during the summer!”
— A student“I guess you really have to concentrate when you play.”
— A student“It sounded really good before you pointed all the mistakes out.”
— A student“I know it must be good for me because I hate it so much!”
— A student“These songs are really pretty if you play them right!”
— A student“Who doesn’t like portato? It sounds like potato which sounds like French Fries!”
— A student“I start absent-mindedly and then I realize that I forgot to count!”
— A student“It’s hard to think and play!”
— A studentLetters from Students & Families
These are real notes, written by real students and parents, saved over 40 years of teaching.
“Thank you for being the BEST teacher ever. You have changed my life by helping me achieve my musical dreams.”
— James
Student, age ~9
“You have given Abby so much more than lessons on music. You have helped her make choices, work through challenges, and play in front of other people. These skills will all transfer to her life at college and beyond.”
— Emily Thomson
Parent of student Abby
“Thank you for being an amazing teacher and helping a lot on my viola skills! Even though it has been only a few months, thank you for improving a lot of my skills and making lessons fun!”
— Lainey
Student
The Studio
Getting Started
No commitment, no pressure. Your first lesson is a free 30-minute trial — a chance for us to meet, play a little, and see if it’s a good fit.
Tell me a little about your child (or yourself), what instrument you’re interested in, and any questions you have. There are no silly questions.
mgregsim@gmail.com →I’ll reply and we’ll set up a quick phone or email conversation so I can learn more about your goals and answer any remaining questions.
Your first lesson is completely free — no strings attached. It’s a chance to meet, try things out, and decide together if it’s a great fit.
★ Completely Free — No Commitment
Tuition
Lessons are available Monday through Thursday, 4–8pm, at my home studio near Verona, WI.
30 min
$30
Great for beginners and young children
45 min
$45
Most popular for school-age students
60 min
$60
Ideal for advanced students and adults
Have questions about lessons, your child’s readiness, instruments, or anything else? Please reach out — there are no silly questions when it comes to your child’s musical journey.
I reply to every message personally, usually within 24 hours.
Location
Near Verona, WI
(exact address provided upon enrollment)
Lesson Days
Monday – Thursday, 4–8pm
Your first lesson is free — no commitment required.