Simon Estes

Was expecting the "festive holiday event". There was Christmas music and Simon still has a pretty good voice but I was hoping he would sing "Oh Holy Night" or other classics. That didn't happen. I understand the need for a mention of his foundation and why we were there to support him but I felt fully half of the night was commercials (from nice folks) about why we should contribute. All of the friends I spoke to felt much the same about the evening. He is a wonderful man (and my grandson sang with the choir) but it didn't live up to what was billed.

A wonderful event. He is a gifted singer as well as a dedicated Christian and humanitarian. So glad he is an Iowan. And the choir and orchestra were great as well. Thank you for this inspiring afternoon.

A choir of over 1,000 Iowa high school students, a youth orchestra conducted by Joseph Guinta, solos by Simon Estes--who could ask for anything more! In addition, audience members were encouraged to help save children in Africa from dying of malaria by donating to Simon Estes" charity--"Nothing but Nets". It was a great afternoon at HIlton Coliseum! The "Hallelujah Chorus" by the combined choir and orchestra was a fitting way to end. In addition, both Governor Branstad and his wife, and Lieutenant Governor Kim Reynolds, and Ames Mayor Ann Campbell were all in attendance. A once-in-a lifetime occasion.

It was wonderful to see all of the kids participating in this great concert. However, there were too many "commercials" for the malaria nets. I get that this was what he was trying to promote but do we have to hear from so many people about the same thing?? The youth symphony and choir were very good and it was great to be able to sing along with them. Simon is always good to hear. We have such a gem here in our state.

A really enjoyable show for all ages. Simon is a great speaker with a story, motiviational and his word of humanity. The performance was great and met all our expectations.

We were disappointed - too many speakers and not enough music. It was billed as a holiday concert to raise money to fight malaria. Naturally, we expected some discussion of the need for fundraising. Most of the speakers did not offer any new information. We wanted to see the choirs and orchestra perform. We would have been more likely to make a generous contribution to the cause if the concert had wowed us. It seemed that less than half of the 21/2 hour concert was actually devoted to the musicians.

The event was billed as a Simon Estes concert. Yet, he was only there a few moments and only sang three songs. My mother died at Mercy Hospice, and I wanted so bad just to cry along. Songs often move me to tears, but when I hear his voice I just melt. The choir and the other singers were outstanding, but I wanted to hear Simon more. I had not seen the program beforehand so I didn't know when Simon would be appearing. The program should have been advertised differently as Simon and Friends or something similar. I am grateful, however, to hear him even for a few moments. I am not an opera fan, but his voice is God-given to touch the souls of hurting people like myself. God Bless you Simon! I will see you again!.

I wasn't aware of how many opening acts were before Simon Estes, and had little hope for a great evening after looking at the program. Thankfully, I was wrong. It was the best concert I have been to in ages!