Biography of Nicolaas Duin
Second Nature
Music and the stage are my second nature. As a freelance musician, I spent years performing for packed audiences. But when COVID struck, I suddenly faced an empty schedule.
Turning Point
That became a turning point. I decided to translate my experience into the corporate world as a “musical speaker.” My mission? To help organizations discover how music can teach us everything about teamwork and leadership—especially in times of change.
Harmony
My talks focus on harmony within teams and how to achieve it. What can we learn from listening, aligning, opening up, improvising, and trusting? I demonstrate this live from behind my piano, bringing lots of positive energy, humor, and a healthy dose of self-irony.
Why Music?
Music resonates with everyone. It brings people together, gets you moving, and offers inspiring lessons in collaboration and communication.
Freelance Musician
For over 25 years, I performed on stages around the world—from the ‘Alpha’ stage at Lowlands to a village square in Guatemala, and from theaters in Buenos Aires to the beaches of Curaçao. Everywhere I went, I witnessed the positive impact music has on people.
Music Technology
After completing high school in Rotterdam, I pursued a degree in ‘Music Technology’ at Utrecht University of the Arts (HKU). I specialized in applied composition and production.
Studio & Stage
During that time, I was already active in studios and on stage. I collaborated with artists such as Danny de Munk, Henk Poort, Ot Azoj Klezmerband, Loes Luca, Bob Fosko, Willeke Alberti, Angela Groothuizen, Yentl & De Boer, Vuile Huichelaar, De Smartlappenkaraoke, Madelijne Kool, Monique Klemann, Wieneke Remmers, Brownie Dutch, Lucas Hamming, Thijs Boontjes, Veldhuis & Kemper, and many more.
Globe CKC
I also built a teaching practice focused on piano and contemporary music at Globe CKC in the MCO building in Hilversum, where I have served as a board member since 2020.
Musical Speaker
Since late 2020, I’ve been connecting music and organizations as a “Musical Speaker.” Time and again, music proves to be a powerful metaphor! This new direction has been such a success that, as of mid-2024, I’ve dedicated myself to being a full-time Musical Speaker.
Musical Moderator
Increasingly, I’m also invited to serve as a “Musical Moderator”. But don’t expect a typical host! I play live piano and introduce speakers with music specifically chosen for them. In interviews, I weave music into the conversation as a metaphor. This instantly gives the event a unique and personal “sound.”
Clients
I’ve been fortunate that prominent clients found me early on. Their positive experiences not only led to repeat invitations but also word-of-mouth recommendations—the best kind of advertising!