Teaching Artist Statement
As an educator, I encourage curiosity, fearlessness, and expression in music. I believe the creation of music is for all who welcome it and for those who find joy and appreciation for the art. No student is too young or too old to begin their musical journey, to connect with music, and in return, to connect with others. Although my expectations in lessons push students to their limits, I also encourage them to make mistakes, take risks, and ask questions when things are unclear. I value patience, kindness, and tough love when required. Having been brought up in the music program in Brockton, Massachusetts, through music, I learned, “If you wish to achieve great things, it takes dedication, determination, and discipline.” - Vincent Macrina, Brockton Public Schools Music Director.
Teaching Bio
Debbie Chen earned her Bachelor's degree in Music Education and Bassoon performance from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, studying under Stephen Walt and Dr. Remy Taghavi. After taking an additional year at UMass Amherst to receive a performance certificate, she went on to attain her Master's degree in Bassoon Performance at Stony Brook University, where she studied with Dr. Frank Morelli. Chen began giving private lessons in her second year of college, and since then has been teaching bassoonists and oboists of all ages. Since graduation, Chen has settled in Eastern Massachusetts, teaching high school marching band and wind ensemble, middle school general music, chorus, and band in Brockton, chamber music with the Boston Youth Symphony Orchestra, and private lessons in various school districts. As of fall of 2025, Chen is Professor of Bassoon at Bridgewater State University. Chen began teaching at South Shore Conservatory’s Duxbury and Hingham campuses in September 2025.
Performance Bio
Debbie Chen is a freelance bassoonist who has performed all over New England. Chen is a native of Brockton, Massachusetts, and began her musical journey as a pianist in her early years. She picked up the clarinet in 4th grade and switched to bassoon her freshman year of high school. Since then, she has performed with the Boston Youth Symphony Orchestra and at South Shore Conservatory. Chen earned her Bachelor's degree in Music Education and Bassoon performance from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, studying under Stephen Walt and Dr. Remy Taghavi. In addition to bassoon, Chen also studied oboe under the direction of Fred Cohen. After taking an additional year at UMass Amherst to receive a performance certificate, she went on to attain her Master's degree in Bassoon Performance at Stony Brook University, where she studied with Dr. Frank Morelli. Chen maintains an active freelancing career, performing regularly as principal bassoonist with the Brockton Symphony Orchestra, the Firebird Pops Orchestra, the Commonwealth Wind Symphony, the Greater Lowell Symphony Orchestra, and the Gateway City Orchestra. Chen is widely sought after to perform with ensembles and orchestras throughout Massachusetts. Chen started teaching at South Shore Conservatory in 2025.