In the heart of Des Moines, a nonprofit organization has been transforming lives through music education. Since its inception in 2013, City Voices has provided essential musical training to hundreds of students who otherwise would not have access to such opportunities. This article explores the remarkable journey of City Voices and its profound influence on the local community, highlighting the stories of students whose futures have been shaped by this initiative.

A Legacy of Music Education

The roots of City Voices can be traced back to the passion and vision of Mary Anne Sims, its executive director. Formerly a teacher at Roosevelt High School for 14 years, Sims recognized the disparity in music education opportunities between suburban and urban students. Her mission was clear: to bridge this gap and provide underprivileged youth with the tools and skills needed to pursue their musical aspirations.

Sims' inspiration stemmed from her background in urban music education and the legacy left by her mother, a long-standing professor of music education at the University of Iowa. With a generous inheritance, Sims founded City Voices, aiming to honor her mother's dedication to music education. Initially serving 23 students during summer sessions, the organization has since expanded to accommodate approximately 50 students across three annual sessions. Nearly all participants come from families living below or near the poverty line, underscoring the critical need for such services.

Transforming Lives Through Music

City Voices has not only taught music but also instilled valuable life skills in its students. Over 200 metro-area students have benefited from the program, with some pursuing higher education in music-related fields. However, the impact extends beyond musical achievements. Many students apply the persistence and dedication learned through music to excel in various career paths.

One particularly inspiring story involves a high school student interested in becoming a music therapist. As a first-generation college student and child of immigrants, she faced significant challenges. City Voices provided her with guitar, piano, and voice lessons, enabling her to audition successfully for one of the top music therapy programs in the country at the University of Kansas. Despite initial skepticism from her parents, this student now enjoys a fulfilling career as a music therapist, earning more than she ever imagined. Her success exemplifies how music education can alter the course of a young person's life, offering them a path to a brighter future.