We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Bonnie Houpt. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Bonnie below.

Hi Bonnie, thanks for joining us today. What did your parents do right and how has that impacted you in your life and career?

My parents always support me and my creative endeavors. They would sing along to songs I made up and let me try and quit drum lessons as a kid. In middle school and through high school and undergrad, they supported my interests in band and percussion, supporting me not only financially but by showing up and cheering me on at different musical events as well. When I wanted to major in music, they never questioned it, and similarly when I started my own business, they continued their support. They are also my biggest fans on Rhythmic Roots Music Services’ s social media. They continued supporting and nurturing my creativity, which in turn has allowed me to give musical experiences to my clients.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I have been playing percussion since middle school and majored in music therapy at the University of Georgia. A couple of years into my professional career as a board-certified music therapist (MT-BC), I went full-time with my business, providing music therapy, music lessons, and music groups to individuals with disabilities in the Denver metro area. I create accessible and adaptive music experiences for all, including ukulele groups, general music, bucket drumming, individual lessons, and more! I believe that anyone can make music and that everyone deserves the opportunity to experience and learn music if interested. This belief as well as my percussion ability and play-based approach set me apart from others. I like to connect authentically with clients and make music to work collaboratively towards goals, both musical and clinical. Many of my clients do not have as many opportunities to learn music or have difficulty in traditional music lessons, and my services provide a space for this music education as well as a place for creative expression in whatever way resonates most with my clients. I am really proud of the community connections I have created and the success my clients have had as Rhythmic Roots moves towards its 4 year anniversary.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

Near the beginning of my business, I started an Instagram and Facebook account to share updates and resources with other music therapists, parents, and professionals. It has built over time through connections, engaging with people on both platforms through following, reacting, and commenting on their content while also sharing my own. I also joined relevant Facebook groups to my services and profession, which has allowed continued connection over time. My best advice for social media presence is to not overdo it. You don’t have to listen to people pushing the algorithm. Post when you want to and what you want to share. Your audience will resonate with this authenticity more than trying to post for the sake of posting. Share, give, connect, and do what makes you most comfortable.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

Society can definitely do more to support artists, possibly starting with acknowledging how creative arts impact everyone’s lives and mental health. From there, support local businesses! If you are interested in art or music classes for you or your child, look for opportunities to support small business and local artists. Another idea, if you have the resources, is to donate to the arts or provide grant opportunities for creative art opportunities. I have been able to provide services through grants through local community boards, allowing my services to reach more people who would have difficulty paying for the services. It is a win-win for everyone when we can support the artists and the people who can benefit from the art.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://rhythmicrootsmusicservices.org
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rhythmicrootsmusicservices/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rhythmicrootsmusicservices
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/40765788
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/BonnieHouptRRMS

Image Credits
Terra Scott