Meet Cassidy Velthouse

We recently connected with Cassidy Velthouse and have shared our conversation below.

Cassidy, we are so deeply grateful to you for opening up about your journey with mental health in the hops that it can help someone who might be going through something similar. Can you talk to us about your mental health journey and how you overcame or persisted despite any issues? For readers, please note this is not medical advice, we are not doctors, you should always consult professionals for advice and that this is merely one person sharing their story and experience.

Mental health is not a weakness.

That is one of the first things that I think of when asked “what is your biggest weakness?” I have gone through many job interviews and have been asked that question almost every time. My different mental health diagnoses have held me back, that’s true. They have kept me from hanging out with friends, taking incredible opportunities, and holding a stable job. I have been struggling with anxiety and depression for years. I viewed my mental health as a weakness at one point, but I have learned with the help of many people that I can overcome my struggles.

I had been going through a really rough patch in my life in the beginning of this year. My parents had divorced recently and I had picked up my life and moved two hours away from where I grew up. I had begun training at a dueling piano bar in Grand Rapids called Mojo’s, and I had finally found something in my life that I was passionate about, but I was still unhappy. I wasn’t good enough to get booked for gigs yet. I was barely scraping by financially: as much as I had loved music, training for the gig is unpaid, so I was working all day at a juvenile detention facility and then coming home to practice and visit multiple piano bars around the state of Michigan. I was burnt out and drained physically and emotionally, and my roommate saw it. He walked me over to our staircase and told me to walk up four steps. “Look how far you’ve gotten,” he told me. “You are doing so well. I know that it’s hard right now, but you are doing what you love and eventually it will pay off.” That was something that I really needed to hear in that moment. I felt like all I was doing was working, and I had lost everything I loved doing. Even playing the piano was a chore for me; it was something that needed to be done for work and not something to de-stress with. He had helped me see that I was actually progressing in life but that it was going to take some time and effort.

I had also gone to therapy for quite a while, and one thing that my therapist said has really stuck with me throughout the years. “There is a circle of control, and a circle of influence. The only thing that you can control is yourself. You can try to influence everything else in the world, but you can’t control them.” That was a big part of my anxiety: I couldn’t control what my parents’ feelings were towards each other or how fast I would get booked for music gigs. But I could control how I handle my parents’ divorce, and how much I progress in music is up to me.

Now, I’m booked for solo gigs almost every weekend. I’m traveling around the country doing something that I love, and I’ve had incredible opportunities to play music and create good vibrations (as the Beach Boys rightly said) for people around the world. I play dueling piano gigs with my roommate and other amazing players from all over the globe, and I couldn’t imagine a better job for me. I realized that playing music and creating joy for others is my passion in life.

Mental health is not a weakness. Mental health is an obstacle that you can overcome. Overcoming instances of anxiety and depression have enlightened within me a strength that I didn’t know I had, and a devotion for spreading cheer and love through music.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

Music has been my passion since I first sat down at the piano at the age of 5. Now, as a professional piano player and vocalist, I am fortunate to bring my music to a variety of settings, from intimate gatherings to large events like weddings and fundraisers. I also teach at B’s Music Shop in Mount Pleasant, providing piano lessons to all age groups! I love being able to spread the knowledge of music to anyone who wants to learn, young or old. My primary focus is booking solo or duo gigs where I perform both as a pianist and vocalist. Whether it’s creating a romantic atmosphere at weddings, bringing joy to fundraisers, or simply adding musical flair to any event, I find immense satisfaction in connecting with audiences through music. What excites me most about my work is the ability to touch people’s lives through music. Whether it’s the emotional resonance of a funeral service or the lively energy of a bar gig, every performance is a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact. I am a dueling piano player that is contracted with Dueling Pianos International, adding a dynamic interactive element to my performances. I also book gigs and perform with Twilight Tunes, a new dueling group. Recently, I’ve been expanding my presence on social media to share highlights from gigs and promote upcoming shows. It’s a way for me to connect more deeply with my audience and showcase the diversity of venues and events I perform at. I’m thrilled to announce that I’ll be performing at Kentucky Kingdom during their Christmas event, bringing holiday cheer through music. This opportunity is part of my ongoing journey to expand my reach and share my music with new audiences. Additionally, I’m always looking for new collaborations with causes that align with my values and playing for small businesses that appreciate live music.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

1. Musical Proficiency:
First and foremost, my proficiency as a pianist and vocalist has been crucial. Years of dedicated practice and formal training since childhood have provided me with the technical skills and musical depth necessary to perform across a wide range of genres and settings. Continuously honing my craft through practice and learning new repertoire has been essential. However, anyone can learn music as long as you want to learn! For those starting out, I would emphasize the importance of consistent practice and learning. Set aside dedicated time each day to practice your instrument or voice. Take advantage of resources such as online tutorials and music lessons to expand your repertoire and refine your technique. Never stop learning and pushing yourself to improve.

2. Business Acumen:
Understanding the business side of music has also been crucial. Booking gigs, negotiating contracts, managing finances, and promoting myself effectively through social media and networking have all played a significant role in my career development. Building strong relationships with clients and understanding their needs has been key to securing repeat bookings and expanding my opportunities. Early in your journey, take the time to educate yourself about the business aspects of your field. Attend workshops or courses on music business management, learn about marketing strategies tailored to musicians, and seek mentorship from more experienced professionals. Develop a clear brand identity and leverage platforms like social media to showcase your work and connect with potential clients. I have found a wonderful resource through multiple Facebook groups; there are so many useful tips online! Don’t be afraid to reach out to other musicians for help.

3. Versatility and Adaptability:
Lastly, being versatile and adaptable as a musician has been essential. From playing at weddings and funerals to performing in bars and art studios, each venue and event requires a different approach and repertoire. Being able to adapt my performance style and song selection to suit the audience and setting has enabled me to thrive in diverse environments.

Early on, expose yourself to a wide range of musical genres and performance settings. Practice playing different styles of music and challenge yourself to perform in new and unfamiliar venues. Embrace opportunities to collaborate with other musicians or artists from different backgrounds, as this can broaden your musical horizons and enhance your adaptability.

Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?

Yes, I am always looking for new collaborations and partnerships! I would love to partner with other dueling piano bars across the country; I am a big traveler and would love to see more of the world. I also am willing to travel for any type of event! I specifically enjoy playing for fundraisers and non-profits where all the tips go towards the cause. I love being able to make a difference through music, and if this is something you are interested in, contact me! My messages are always open, and you can contact me on Facebook or Instagram. My email is cvelthouse@gmail.com; feel free to email with any inquiries!

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @cassjoymusic
• Facebook: @cassjoymusic, @twilighttunes
• Email: cvelthouse@gmail.com

Image Credits

Katherine Fulcher
Alicia Kolenda
Justice Benedict