For violinist Nikki Rinsema, music has been a lifelong journey intertwined with faith, family, and resilience. Inspired by a strings program at her small Christian school in Whitinsville, Massachusetts, Nikki began playing the violin at just five years old. Her passion for music has grown over the years, fueled by a desire to honor God’s gifts and set an example for her children.
Nikki’s musical journey flourished in her school’s tight-knit community, where rehearsals and sports practices often overlapped, creating a unique balance between discipline and camaraderie. After high school, she attended Trinity Christian College near Chicago, where she expanded her musical repertoire, studied under exceptional instructors, and formed lifelong connections. One of her mentors, whose cello-playing friend she still collaborates with, left a lasting impact before his passing.
Her performance experience is as extensive as it is impressive. In Chicago, she worked as a private violin instructor at St. Xavier University and performed with the university orchestra. She was also part of the Trimont Quartet, honing her skills in a chamber music setting.
After relocating to the Sarasota area, Nikki brought her talents to several local ensembles. She spent two years as a section player with the Venice Symphony before serving as the principal second violin with the Anna Maria Island Concert Choir and Orchestra (AMICCO) for six years. With The Pops of Bradenton and Sarasota (now widely known as The Sarasota Pops), Nikki held the role of principal second violin for two years before ascending to Concertmaster, a position she held for four years.
Her performances span iconic venues, from St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City to the steps of the temple in Jerusalem, where she reflected on her faith and the purpose of her music. While she cherishes each experience, performing in Jerusalem remains a deeply humbling moment, reminding her that her music is a vessel for God’s work.
Nikki owns three violins, each with a story. Her current instrument, purchased in Chicago in 2019, has a unique history involving theft and recovery. Another, gifted by her father who sold his truck to buy it, is now played by her daughter Annie.
Teaching has also been an integral part of Nikki’s life. While she no longer offers lessons, her years as an instructor shaped hundreds of students, some of whom have gone on to professional careers. Nikki finds joy not just in nurturing musical talent but also in watching her students grow personally through the discipline and artistry of music.
Balancing her roles as a musician and mother hasn’t always been easy, especially amid challenges like hurricanes that forced her family to evacuate their home multiple times. Yet, Nikki’s commitment to serving her church and performing with the Pops never wavered. Her family’s musical bond has only strengthened through shared performances and moments of perseverance.
At the core of Nikki’s music is her faith. She marvels at the intricate design of music and its reflection of God’s creation. Through every note, she hopes to convey peace and worship, offering listeners a glimpse of God’s perfect harmony.
For me, I realized what a perfect creation music truly is, and how that design reflects God and His intricate detail in so many ways.