As CEO of Rosie’s House, Becky Bell Ballard ( above middle ) fulfills the mission Rosie Schurz ( left ) created for the organization more than 25 years ago. COVER STORY { by karen werner } MUSIC IS THE MUSE JANUARY 2022 | 34 | FRONTDOORS MEDIA Rosie’s House hasn’t had its own permanent home since 2000. But that hasn’t stopped its incredible growth.

Rosie Schurz knew that a permanent structure showed a commitment to the children’s future. Rosie’s House would be there to prepare them for more than music. The initial goal for Rosie’s House was to give a child who could not afford it a chance to take music lessons. “ ” FRONTDOORS MEDIA | 35 | JANUARY 2022 R osie Schurz believes in magic, at least when it comes to creating it. “The initial goal for Rosie’s House was to give a child who could not afford it a chance to take music lessons, something the war took away from me,” she said. Now well into her 80s, Schurz still mourns the loss of her childhood violin. During World War II, Schurz’s family fled their home in Munich, forcing 7-year-old Rosie to leave her violin behind. Throughout her life — after immigrating to the United States and working as a nurse, photographer and volunteer helping the homeless community — she kept hearing music call. Finally, an encounter with Mother Teresa during the nun’s visit to Arizona inspired her to listen.