Keep an open mind. Use inclusive language. – Even though a lot of the composers of the songs we sing are or were homosexual, that does not exclude them from doing things like writing male choruses about being in love with some girl, or vice versa. And let’s face it, some boys in your choirs won’t ever be in love with a girl, maybe other than for her accessories….
So, it can cause a disconnect for that gay student. I remember having a very powerful experience at a dress rehearsal for a holiday concert at the University of South Dakota. I was struggling with my sexuality and Dr. Harden, now at UNO, had put together all of the men from the three choirs to sing the Biebl Ave Maria. I hadn’t come out to anyone yet. We were up in the balcony, next to the stage, and… it just wasn’t there. There was no emotion. Of course Dr. Harden wouldn’t stand for such a thing to happen. So he said, “Come on guys. You’re better than this. Doesn’t this mean something to you? Close your eyes. Now picture the person you love. I don’t care if it’s your girlfriend, your boyfriend, your parents or grandparents.” He said to the all-male chorus, and there was a warm flood of acceptance that rushed over and through me. He continued, “Now imagine that you have to sing this song to save them. It’s the only thing you have to do. Is sing this song.” And it was glorious, or it felt like it to me anyway. The singing may not have gotten any better, but it didn’t matter to me. The song had become so special and magical. Don’t discount any little moment that you might have, any small comment, tiny gesture. It might be the one thing that someone needs to hear.
Dale Duncan says