Welcome to Second City Strings
Second City Strings is a Suzuki-based violin studio led by Ms. G (Ms. Grube), offering joyful, thoughtful, and highly individualized violin instruction for students ages 3–18, with limited adult offerings. Located in Des Plaines, a northwest suburb of Chicago, the studio welcomes students and families from across the Chicago area.
Rooted in the Suzuki philosophy, Second City Strings is built on the belief that every child can learn.
What we offer
Students at Second City Strings study through individual violin lessons during the fall and spring semesters, with flexible lesson blocks available over the summer.
In addition to private lessons, students participate in:
Monthly group classes, where students play together, build ensemble skills, and learn by observing one another
Studio recitals that celebrate progress and build performance confidence
Community performances and special events, including outreach performances and playing the national anthem at sporting events
These experiences help students grow not only as violinists, but as confident and engaged musicians.
Teaching style & Suzuki Philosophy
Instruction at Second City Strings follows the Suzuki philosophy, emphasizing listening, repetition, encouragement, and learning in a supportive environment. Lessons are carefully tailored to each student and family, honoring different learning styles, personalities, abilities, and goals.
Ms. G believes in meeting students where they are—challenging them thoughtfully while ensuring they feel supported, capable, and proud of their progress.
What is the Suzuki method?
The Suzuki method is a music education philosophy and pedagogy developed by Japanese violinist Shinichi Suzuki, which emphasizes learning music in the same way that children learn their native language: through listening, imitation, and repetition. The core aim of the Suzuki Method, developed by Dr. Shinichi Suzuki, is to "make good humans" by cultivating positive human qualities like sensitivity, discipline, endurance, appreciation for beauty, and self-esteem through musical training.
About Ms. G
Ms. G (Ms. Grube) is an accomplished Suzuki violin teacher who teaches at Suzuki institutes throughout North and Central America and presents regularly at Suzuki conferences. She brings high-level pedagogy, warmth, curiosity, and care to her studio, blending professional excellence with a genuine love of teaching.
An inclusive & welcoming studio
Second City Strings is committed to creating an inclusive, respectful, and affirming learning environment. Students and families of all backgrounds, identities, and abilities are welcome. Every student deserves to feel seen, supported, and encouraged to grow both musically and personally.
More than violin lessons
At Second City Strings, violin study is about more than learning an instrument it’s about belonging, growth, and building skills that last a lifetime, one practice at a time.
Contact Ms. G
Interested in lessons? Fill out some info and we will be in touch shortly. We can’t wait to hear from you!