In this episode of Greeley Business Beat, we sit down with Nicole Harwell, founder and former owner of Flourish Music Academy. From her roots as a lifelong pianist to building one of Greeley’s leading community music schools, Nicole shares the journey of turning her passion for teaching into a thriving business. We dive into the challenges of transitioning from self-employed piano teacher to business owner, the importance of building a strong team, and how Flourish provides opportunities for students of all ages to experience the joy and lifelong benefits of music. 

Note: Since the time of this interview, Flourish Music Academy has been acquired by One Music Schools, a family-run company out of Utah that specializes in operating music schools. While Nicole is the founder of Flourish Music Academy, she is no longer the owner. The new owners are committed to keeping the name, staff, and culture that continues to share the joy of music in Greeley.

Key Highlights: 

  • [00:02:00] From Piano Lessons to Flourish Music Academy
    Nicole shares how her journey from grad school at UNC to private piano teaching eventually inspired her to create Flourish Music in 2017—a place where music education could expand beyond her solo studio.

  • [00:04:00] Building a School for All Instruments
    Originally inspired by a dream of a sheet music store, Nicole pivoted to create a collaborative academy that now offers lessons in piano, guitar, voice, violin, cello, ukulele, and more.

  • [00:05:34] Teachers Who Flourish Together
    Nicole emphasizes the importance of community among her instructors and staff, creating a space where educators support each other and share ideas to better connect with students.

  • [00:10:01] Lessons Learned in Entrepreneurship
    Nicole reflects on the steep learning curve of running a business, from HR to marketing, and how she balanced growing Flourish while raising two young children.

  • [00:15:45] Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
    Her biggest takeaway? Surround yourself with a great team. Success, she says, comes from building on each other’s strengths.

Rapid Fire Questions: 

  • Favorite instrument (besides piano)? Guitar

  • Sheet music or digital? Sheet music (but admits digital wins for convenience)

  • Solo or Ensemble? Ensemble. Music is meant to be shared

  • Early bird or night owl? Early bird (thanks to kids and students!)

  • Favorite performance memory? Student recitals that show real growth and joy

  • Winter or Summer? Summer. More time for music outdoors

  • Hot coffee or iced? Hot, to keep lessons fueled

About Flourish Music Academy:
Founded in 2017 by Nicole Harwell, Flourish Music Academy is dedicated to helping students of all ages discover the joy of music. Now owned and operated by One Music Schools, Flourish continues to offer piano, voice, guitar, strings, and more through personalized lessons, group programs, and early childhood classes—all while carrying forward its mission of sharing the joy of music.

Learn more: Visit Flourish Music Academy to explore programs, classes, and upcoming events.

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The Greeley Business Beat is brought to you by the City of Greeley in collaboration with 1K Creative. Learn more about what makes Greeley a vibrant and welcoming community at VisitGreeley.com. 

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