Hello everyone! ~
I am a music teacher with a private teaching studio in my hometown of Somerset, MA. I teach violin and viola ~ all levels from complete beginners of any age to intermediate and advanced/ high school/ college level, as well as beginning and intermediate cello and bass. 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!
All private lessons are taught one-on-one, and are available in-person as well as online.
I really love seeing and hearing my students grow and mature as musicians, and taking part in their excitement, accomplishments and joy! I find teaching to be very rewarding, and a positive way to give back to the community. I enjoy having the opportunity to teach many different students, from young children just having their first experiences playing an instrument, to teens and young adults - some hoping to make a career in music, to older adults learning to play for pleasure. I also enjoy teaching many different genres and styles of music - from a wide range of classical music and the traditional Suzuki repertoire, to fiddling, folk and country music, current and classic rock and popular music. If there's a particular type of music you'd like to learn to play, please let me know!
I guide students to develop proper playing technique and body mechanics in addition to good musicianship so they 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 and/or solo with the Rhode Island Philharmonic Youth Orchestra (RIPYO), Southeastern Massachusetts Youth Orchestra (SEMAYO)/ New Bedford Symphony Youth Orchestra (NBSYO), Boston Youth Symphony Orchestra (BYSO), the Fall River Symphony, the Southeastern Massachusetts Junior and Senior District Orchestras and Massachusetts All-State Orchestras, as well as many other community, youth, high school and collegiate orchestras.
Many 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.
Students may choose to have 30, 45, or 60 minute lessons.
30 minute lessons are $25
45 minute lessons are $37.50
60 minute lessons are $50
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.
Hours: I primarily teach Monday through Friday afternoons and evenings. I will also consider teaching some students earlier in the day on weekdays if my schedule allows. Please contact me for available lesson times.
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. Please let me know of any special needs or concerns in advance.
If anyone has any questions about my experience, teaching techniques, lesson policy, setting up an instrument rental or purchase in order to begin lessons, etc., I will be happy to help.
I may be reached here through Thumbtack, by phone, email, or through my Facebook business site at "Denise Martel Bovie - String Instrument Lessons" where there is additional information. Unless I happen to be away, I can usually answer inquiries within a few hours.
Education and experience:
5-Year Bachelor of Music in Music Education with Instrumental Performance Emphasis from the Hartt School of Music, University of Hartford, CT. Summa cum laude and 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).
