Mary Craven Bartemes, Artistic Director

Mary Craven Bartemes is a native of Des Moines, IA, where her musical journey began in the Des Moines Children's Chorus. She was nurtured under the esteemed guidance of Barbara Sletto, the visionary founder of HYC. With a Bachelor's Degree in Music Education, specializing in voice and piano, Mary graduated with distinction from Drake University and has since been a commanding presence in the Greater Des Moines music scene.

With close to a decade of teaching experience spanning both private and public educational settings encompassing grades K-12, Mary has honed her expertise in elementary and early childhood music education. Her passion for enriching young minds through the power of music has been a driving force behind her dedication.

Mary holds a Master’s degree in Music Education with a Kodaly Concentration at the University of Saint Thomas in St. Paul, MN. Her credentials speak volumes as she also has certifications in Level 3 Mastery Certificate of the Kodaly Methodology, Level 1 of the Orff-Schulwerk method, and Conversational Solfege levels 1 & 2. Furthermore, Mary has mastered the intricacies of the First Steps in Music curriculum, spanning infant, toddler, and preschool stages. Her versatile teaching approach draws inspiration from the Dalcroze method, expertly weaving various modes of learning into her pedagogy, catering to learners of all ages.

Mary's connection with Heartland Youth Choir is a story of dedication and growth. Beginning her journey with HYC in 2013 as an intern for the Canto and Cantilena choirs, she later transitioned into the role of a staff accompanist before achieving the esteemed position of conductor, and now Artistic Director. Her impactful contribution to the choir includes expanding HYC's offerings for preschool-aged students and playing a pivotal role in launching the satellite choir program.  She currently directs the Windsor Heights locations of Cantemus, Chanté, and Cadet, as well as heading the Musical Explorers daycare program, and Coro, HYC’s outreach program to underserved children in Des Moines.

Mary lives with her husband Theodore, a software engineering manager and local composer, and her son James, a member of Cantemus Choir. Her passion for music education, unwavering dedication to her students, and commitment to arts education make her an inspiring force in the Des Moines cultural landscape.

Email: mary@heartlandyouthchoir.org
Office: 515-221-3922