We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Nicole Bakker a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Nicole, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. How did you come up with the idea for your business?

I’ve always thought about the idea of having my own business, but it was always just a thought. In 2016 I became a board certified music therapist, and since then have worked in a variety of settings with many different populations. I also became a licensed music educator in Colorado and taught in Denver Public Schools for 3 years. After exploring a variety of jobs, and experiencing burnout, I decided I wanted to combine my passion for music therapy and music education, in my own way. In starting my own business, I knew I could have more control. I was able to chose my target clientele and in what settings I worked. I knew I wanted to work with young children, provide music therapy services, and music classes. I wanted more flexibility and wanted to bring back the joy in my work that I had lost due to previous burnout. I also knew I wanted a family in the near future, and that starting my own business would allow for more flexibility with this. Working up to this decision was very scary. Leaving a stable, steady job was a difficult decision. It was a big risk and leap, but worth it.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

My business, Notes with Nicole Music Services, provides meaningful growth and connection through music. I provide individual and group music therapy sessions, music classes in facilities such as preschools and daycares, music classes in the community, and music for children’s events such as birthday parties. What sets me apart from others is my experience and education in music therapy and music education. I am a board certified music therapist and licensed music educator and use these skills to create music classes with therapeutic goals in mind. I travel in home and to facilities to provide music therapy sessions to individuals of all ages and needs. I love how music can be used to reach therapeutic goals and everyone has their own special connection to it.
Like I mentioned before, I worked a variety of different jobs and ultimately experienced a lot of burnout. This led me to creating my own business, where I could be in control and do the things I love. I have loved making community connections and providing music to so many different individuals. Starting this was not easy. I’ve been learning and growing my business since the start. I had no business background before this, so have had to learn as I go. I also became pregnant 4 months after starting my business. This was definitely a challenge. In October 2024, I had my daughter. Since then, I have scaled back a bit so I can be home with her. Since having her, I have gained so much respect for parents and have seen my work in a new way. I want others to know how meaningful and important music is! It can play such a valuable part in growth, development, and wellbeing. Music is healing.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

I think what really helped me build my reputation is word of mouth. Moms sharing their positive experiences with other families and professionals in the community. I’ve focused on building genuine connections, both with parents and with other providers, and I always try to approach my work with compassion and empathy. I’m passionate about what I do, and I stay true to myself in every interaction, which I think people can feel. That combination of authenticity, care, and connection has made the biggest difference.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

A big pivot for me came when I became pregnant just four months after starting my business. It was something we had planned, but it still felt really scary since I was just getting established. After having my daughter, I realized I couldn’t keep the same pace. I had to make some hard choices like cutting back clients and sessions, limiting my schedule, and really deciding what was most important. Balancing part-time work while building a business and being present in her life became my focus. That shift taught me a lot about flexibility, and honestly, I still find myself pivoting every day. My business has grown and changed so much since it started, and each stage of motherhood has shaped the way I approach it.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.noteswithnicolemusic.com
• Instagram: @noteswithnicolemusic
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/noteswithnicolemusic/

Image Credits

Alex Artus