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Hello everyone! ~
I am a music teacher with a private teaching studio located in Somerset, MA. I have been teaching privately for about 25 years, much of that time in my hometown of Somerset. I teach violin and viola – all levels from complete beginners to intermediate and advanced/ high school/ college, as well as beginning and intermediate cello and bass. I also teach music reading skills, music theory and composition to anyone who wishes to learn, regardless of instrument, ability or background. I enjoy teaching students of all ages and abilities, from little ones to adults, including those with special needs. All are welcome!

I take an individualized approach to every student’s needs and interests, whether learning the basics, classical, pop, rock, folk, or fiddling – and we have fun!  I develop proper playing techniques and body mechanics in addition to good musicianship so that students can play with ease, expression and a beautiful tone. Note reading and understanding the music are emphasized so that students will be able to learn and enjoy new music independently over time. Students are also taught how to properly care for their instrument and bow, change the strings, polish the instrument, etc., so that their instrument will look and sound its best for many years to come. Both traditional and electric/ amplified instruments are welcome.

Many of my students have been selected to perform or solo with the Rhode Island Philharmonic Youth Orchestra (RIPYO), the New Bedford Symphony Youth Orchestra (NBSYO)/ Southeastern Massachusetts Youth Orchestra (SEMAYO), Boston Youth Symphony Orchestra (BYSO), the Fall River Symphony, as well as many other community, youth, high school and collegiate orchestras. Many students have also been selected to perform with the annual Southeastern Massachusetts Junior and Senior District Orchestras and Massachusetts All-State Orchestra. Students have gone on to major in music or music education, double major with music, minor in music, teach and/or play professionally, or simply continue to enjoy playing as college students and adults.

I may be reached at (508) 674-4604 (home phone, land line), through email at denisebovie@gmail.com, or through Facebook at Denise Martel Bovie – String Instrument Lessons https://www.facebook.com/DeniseMartelBovieStringInstrumentLessons .  Unless I happen to be away, I can usually answer inquiries within a few hours.

I primarily teach Monday through Thursday afternoons and evenings, as well as a few lessons on Saturdays.  Earlier daytime scheduling Monday through Thursday may also be considered if requested.  Please contact me for available lesson times.

All private lessons are taught one-on-one, and are available in-person as well as online.    Lessons for small groups of 2 or more may also be requested.

Students may choose to have 30, 45, or 60 minute lessons. Most students have one lesson each week. Some students choose to have two lessons each week, especially during the summer months, school vacation weeks, or when preparing for a special concert or audition.

Parents of young children are encouraged to attend lessons with their child so they may understand what is being learned and can be of assistance when the child practices at home.

Special Needs: I do teach children and adults with special needs such as autism, learning challenges and physical challenges.

Music lessons can be a lasting and meaningful gift for children and other loved ones ~ or yourself! ~ whether for the holidays or as a special birthday, anniversary or retirement present. Consider giving the gift of music!

If you would like to take lessons and wish to rent or purchase an instrument for the first time, are ready to move up to a larger size, desire a better quality instrument, or your instrument needs repairs or maintenance, I can recommend several reputable shops and dealers that can assist you.

All are welcome to visit, like, and share the Facebook page
“Denise Martel Bovie – String Instrument Lessons”
https://www.facebook.com/DeniseMartelBovieStringInstrumentLessons
and to help spread the word about what I do.
Thank you! : )

Education and experience:
5-Year Bachelor of Music in Music Education with Instrumental Performance Emphasis, minor in English, from the Hartt School of Music, University of Hartford, CT.  Summa cum laude, valedictorian.

Master of Arts in Music Education with Instrumental Performance Emphasis, University of Washington, Seattle, WA.  Summa cum laude.

Performed with numerous symphony, ballet, chamber, and theater orchestras.

Member of the American String Teachers Association (ASTA).