Ann Hartmann

Ann Hartmann went over the river and through the woods before finding her place as a Christian singer/songwriter. She loved music as a child, but lacked the advantage of being born into a musical family. She also had the disadvantage of being raised in a legalistic church, whose restrictive doctrines closed many doors. With a sincere desire to please God, Ann laid down her desire for a career in music and stayed within the boundaries of her church.

Struggling to find her niche, Ann's resume grew long and diverse - teller, bookkeeper, real estate agent, administrative assistant, day care owner, elementary school teacher, and marketing assistant. Ann successfully assumed the role of whatever position she was given, but there was always a gnawing inside - whispering that it wasn't the best fit. Life's twists and turns added to Ann's confusion.

Songwriting had become Ann's therapy - helping her cope with 10 years of watching Alzheimer's disease steal her mother, 11 years of marriage to a controlling, verbally abusive husband - that ended in divorce; and 3 years of struggling with clinical depression. Ann could see the powerful, positive influence music was making in her own life, but sharing it with the world still seemed impossible.

In December 1994, however, things changed as something completely unprecedented happened. God had been dealing with church leaders about doctrinal errors. Determined to follow God's will no matter what the cost, the church announced to a worldwide congregation that previous teachings had been wrong. Suddenly, everything Ann had based her life decisions on became suspect. The church that had often been considered a cult by outsiders had joined mainstream Christianity.

In the aftermath of having her religious foundation pulled out from under her, Ann was forced to start "thinking" for herself. Soul-searching uncovered an ironic truth - her years of trying to follow God by following her church, had left her unsure who God was. Quickly, Ann began the process of developing a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, something she had never had before. For the first time, God became the "cake" in her life, and church attendance became the "icing."

In October 2004, the ultimate test of Ann's faith was the tragic death of her 24 year old son. His car crashed while he was driving under the influence of alcohol. Having God's presence in her life 24 hours a day, 7 days a week made all the difference! He gave Ann His strength and healed her brokenness. Watching Him lovingly carry her through that life-altering experience sealed the deal for Ann - she became determined to live completely for God!

Today, Ann is exactly where God wants her - ministering to others through the musical gifts He has given her. She takes all her experiences and weaves them into songs of faith, hope, and love. Her songs are simple stories about real life, revealing that God's goodness is reliable through every situation - even the darkest ones. Ann's greatest desire is to leave you encouraged that God can ALWAYS be trusted - no matter what.

Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.