Mrs. Waits has been a successful music educator for many years. She has studied under several instructors from different backgrounds. This diverse wealth of knowledge makes her a well-rounded musician and teacher.

 She started learning to play the violin in 2003 at the age of 10. She continued her education through high school as she participated in as many ensembles, competitions, and festivals as she could. Mrs. Waits was a member of the Alton Jr. Youth Symphony, Alton Youth Symphony, IMEA district, and all-state orchestras, and she began playing with the Alton Symphony Orchestra in 2010. 

Kelsey studied music education at Murray State University from 2012 to 2015 under the instruction of Dr. Sue-Jean Park. MSU is where she began her teaching career. She had several private students as well as teaching after-school programs in the community. After her time at Murray State University, Kelsey transferred to Southern Illinois University of Edwardsville where she studied under Dr. Lenora Anop. It was there that she got her Suzuki Certification through book 3. Although Mrs. Waits is not a traditional Suzuki teacher, she does take a lot of influence from the method in which she was trained during her time at SIUE. 

After studying at SIUE Kelsey continued to move around the Midwest teaching violin privately, in groups, at music stores, and in after-school programs in western Kentucky, Chicago IL, and the St. Louis area. Mrs. Waits has gained so much experience through her performances and training as a teacher. She has always had a passion for sharing her gift and is eager to impart knowledge to others. 

Currently, Mrs. Waits is teaching from her home studio located in Alton, IL. She has rejoined the Alton Symphony Orchestra and enjoys performing with her peers. She also plays at weddings, parties, and other events. 

Mrs. Kelsey Waits takes a unique approach to her teaching. She loves to encourage young people and adults to do their best and feel their best doing it. 

"It is so important to celebrate each student's victories, no matter how small. It's a balancing act. You must be kind, gentle, and encouraging while at the same time, holding them to a high standard. The key is to inspire them to be the best they can be. That is my goal as a teacher, to inspire. "-Mrs. Kelsey Waits