Mills Music Redmond's Profile

Since 1972, Mills Music has served the music industry in Puget Sound. Established by entrepreneur, Michael J. Mills, the company, whose humble roots began on Main Street in Bothell, Washington, has grown to 11 retail stores from Monroe in the North Sound to Burien in the South Sound. Our newest store openings include Poulsbo and Yakima.

In the early days, Mills Music operated from an 1100 square foot space acquired from Robinson Music. With one table of sheet music, a host of LP records, and a small guitar and band department, there was just enough room for two teaching studios. "The teaching dimension has always been an important part of what we do," says Mills. "It’s not enough to simply provide the instruments. We also want to make sure our customers can learn to play them."

These early days were a struggle. Beginning with two small business loans, and a young family at home. Mike, like most small business entrepreneurs, wore many hats to keep the business growing. Mary, his wife, has always been involved, too, helping with the accounting and, at that time, monthly invoicing. The Mills' three sons were also involved helping photocopy invoices and prepare monthly mailings.

For two years, Mike was able to run the business on his own with limited part-time help from Bothell High School students. Mills Music has always been open six days per week and it was with great relief that the first full-time employee was hired. Balance between work and family was difficult for Mike in those days but Thursday nights were dedicated to his sons. Their involvement in Boy Scouting still brings fond memories of many treasured father-son events.

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