I’m finally starting to release some clips from my 2019 original musical “Pray Away”. This song “No More Musical Theater” is a turning point in the musical where it quickly switches from a comedy to a tragedy. This is the last of the “fun and games” moments in the script as we follow the journey of two boys going through gay conversion therapy.

Subscribe to my YouTube channel for more PTGA clips and other music video projects I’m working on at: https://www.youtube.com/@ConradAskland

NOTE FROM THE COMPOSER

When I was researching gay conversion therapy while writing the musical “Pray Away”, I came across an actual note from therapists in gay conversion therapy that said patients should avoid musical theater. So of course I knew right away that I had to create a big number about this. I compiled all the tropes and stereotypes I could think of from my experience in working on musical theater shows. This song started at 4 minutes, then 5, then 6 – until eventually I had about 12 minutes of material. I cut it down to the best (in my opinion) 8 minutes.

During pre-production it was often suggested that I cut this song down, but I loved it so much and really wanted it to stay intact in full – so here it is. “No More Musical Theater” is the second song of Act Two. It’s main purpose is simply to delight the audience. My musical Pray the Gay Away is an emotional rollercoaster with many emotional trigger points for audiences. After this song, the story takes a very dark turn that is an emotionally charged experience for audience members. This song is a final “feel good” moment for the audience before they experience the upcoming darkness (tragedy) together.

My whole mission in creating the musical Pray Away was to bring awareness of gay conversion therapy to a mainstream audience. Most people I talk to have heard of gay conversion therapy but really had no understanding of its practices or affects. This musical aims to change that, and to change hearts. It is my most reverent hope that this musical will be brought to a wider audience. I do think this is a musical that can change the world.

– Conrad Askland, April 2024

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ABOUT THE MUSICAL PRAY THE GAY AWAY

Pray the Gay Away, this highly anticipated and controversial live stage show packs plenty of blissful sacrilege and politically incorrect mischief into a reflection of U.S. culture that is humorous, beautiful, shocking, sweet, thought-provoking and incredibly heart-breaking.

For his fourth full-length musical, Conrad Askland has trained his satirical missile system on the cultural, political and theological forces that surround the painful world of gay conversion therapy and the “pray away the gay” movement. This is a big, full-blooded musical with an irreverently comic heart that is also heart-breaking and emotionally charged. Pray the Gay Away pulls up the carpet to expose the underlying U.S. religious, political and cultural attitudes surrounding homosexuality and our understanding of human rights.

LYRICS to NO MORE MUSICAL THEATER

My trigger point to the dirty, sweaty world of homosexuality was…
Musical Theater

It all began with open auditions at the Rosenbaum Children’s Theater for a production of The Reluctant Dragon

It was – a musical
And that musical was – delightful

But in time, Tyler’s theatrical urges began to bulge and swell
My cravings increased
Growing unsatisfied with ensemble roles, I soon yearned to perform in the Sound of Music

At first it was the role of Kurt, then Friedrich
Eventually I obsessed over Julie Andrews and the quintessential role of – Maria

Tell us. How do you solve a problem like Maria?

I said no more musical theater
No more musical theater for me
No more backstage pouts or belting out all my inner dreams
And if I relapse, wear my taps, even just one time
I just have to say NO
That’s why there’s no more musical theater for me

Son, you could be just like him
Change the world to God’s world

There is no more musical theater
No more musical theater for me
Now it’s time to avoid Andrew Lloyd
And inner rhymes of Sondheim

So I’m no longer over the moon
For tech week boom boom in the Green Room
That’s why there’s no absolutely no more musical theater for me
(applause)

No there’s no more musical theater for me

So you’re saying no more Judy Garland?
Ha – Greta was bettah
And no more Barbra Streisand?
I hope she understands

So have you straight up given up speaking in dialogue rhyme?
Yes, I just don’t have the time

Because I’ve lost the passion for verbose verbal mansions
And unscholarly scansion

But the biggest temptation for me was
Those overdone Cockney accents

Top of the morni’ governor
Have a bloomin’ raspberry tart will ya?
Now you got no trouble and strife today for your Tom and Dick
It’s Adam and Eve, not Adam and Steve

Now who don’t love a nice strong cock-ney accent

That’s why there’s no more musical theater for me

And no Recitative – Recitative

Is universally hated by everyone except old Queens who like Gilbert and Sullivan

Never again – No – No – No

Unless of course, the recitative comes right before the dream sequence

No! Save us from the dream sequence…

Muaha ha ha ha! Muaha ha ha ha!

Well hello Erik Jacobsen
How do you know my name?
I am omniscient

Oh it’s only a dream Erik
You can do anything you want in a dream
Politics – Religion – ooh Lutefisk!
And no one will ever know
You could rob a bank – No
You could vote for a woman to be a minister – Ugh No
You could master the dark art of musical theater – Noo!

Surrender Dorothy – there is no resisting Satan’s secret diabolical weapon
Satan’s secret weapon is a tap dance chorus line

Tap dancing is fun
Come on you know you like it
Join us just for one
Join us – Join us – Join us
Gosh darn it – okay
Tyler Noooo!

(Tap Dance)

There is no more musical theater
No more musical theater for him
It’s a burial for Ariel with Tevye and Tiny Tim
No more torch songs with feather boas
The only arc I study now is Noah – Noah’s Ark

Now it’s a total breakdown of money notes
Disney quotes and those octave jumps

Satan get behind me

No more mugging and chewing the scenery
Or dreaming of sugar-plum weinery
So goodbye Phantom, goodbye Forum
Goodbye Fiddler, Goodbye Hair

Musical theater well I don’t care!
Theater will only get your heart broken
While pushing you toward the love unspoken

So hello to my King
And goodbye to my Queen

Judy Garland you are dead to me
Goodbye Satan
Goodbye Barbra

No Barbra I didn’t mean it, please forgive me

No, don’t cry for me Minnesota

Hear my cry O Lord
And set my demons free

Goodbye Satan and musical theater

Time to tell musical theater good-bye-ee-aye-ee-aye

(Applause)

No More Musical Theater © 2019 Conrad Askland

Here is our new recording of Mozart’s Ave Verum Corpus by the vocal quartet Tembresha. We recorded this in my living room at the tail end of the pandemic in December 2021. This was one of several groups I worked with in my home during the pandemic. During the pandemic I wasn’t able to perform publicly so I started working with people in my home as a way to keep my sanity and creativity alive.

Click the bottom right of the video “Watch on YouTube” to listen to it on my YouTube channel and also to read more about the singers, our recording and the history of Mozart’s Ave Verum Corpus

Read more about the history of Ave Verum Corpus by W.A. Mozart: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ave_verum_corpus_(Mozart)

You can also listen to this recording on your favorite streaming platform: https://social.tunecore.com/linkShare?linkid=kvv70yBgJXvm6qcaL8RFqg

I first sang Mozart’s Ave Verum Corpus in 1977 as a boy soprano in the Northwest Boychoir (Seattle, WA USA). It is one of my absolute favorite sacred choral pieces and my favorite choral piece by W.A. Mozart. (I would say “favorite sacred choral work” but there’s always the Mass in B minor by J.S. Bach…)

The lyrics are also very moving. Here’s the original Latin lyrics and the English translation:

LYRICS – AVE VERUM CORPUS

ORIGINAL LATIN
Ave verum corpus,
Natum de Maria virgine;
Vere passum immolatum
In crucis pro homine.
Cuius latus perforatum
Unda fluxit et sanguine.
Esto nobis praegustatum
In mortis examine.

ENGLISH TRANSLATION
Hail, true body,
Born of the virgin Mary;
Who has truly suffered, slaughtered
On the Cross for humanity.
Whose side was pierced,
Pouring out water and blood.
Be a foretaste for us
During our ordeal of death.

The elements of music are the foundational components that make up the structure and characteristics of a musical composition. They include:

1. Melody: Melody refers to the sequence of pitches or notes that create a memorable and recognizable musical line. It is often the most prominent and memorable aspect of a piece of music and is typically carried by a lead instrument or voice.
2. Rhythm: Rhythm is the arrangement of sounds and silences in time, creating a sense of musical pulse and groove. It includes elements such as beat (the underlying pulse of the music), tempo (the speed of the music), meter (the organization of beats into patterns), and syncopation (accenting off-beats or unexpected rhythms).
3. Harmony: Harmony refers to the combination of different pitches or chords that create a sense of tonality or key in a piece of music. It involves the vertical relationship between pitches and how they interact with each other, creating tension, resolution, and color.
4. Dynamics: Dynamics refer to the varying levels of volume and intensity in music, ranging from soft to loud, and everything in between. It adds expressiveness and emotional impact to a musical composition, creating contrast and variety.
5. Timbre: Timbre, also known as tone color or sound color, refers to the unique quality or character of a sound. It distinguishes one instrument or voice from another and contributes to the overall mood, atmosphere, and texture of a piece of music.
6. Form: Form refers to the structure and organization of a musical composition, including its sections, repetitions, and overall layout. It provides coherence and shape to a piece of music, creating a sense of unity and coherence.
7. Texture: Texture refers to the way different musical lines or voices interact with each other. It can be monophonic (single melody line), homophonic (melody with accompanying chords), polyphonic (multiple independent melodies), or other variations, and it contributes to the overall richness and complexity of a piece of music.
8. Lyrics: Lyrics are the words or text in a song that convey the message, story, or meaning of the music. Lyrics are often an important element of vocal music, providing additional layers of expression and communication.

These are some of the main elements of music, and they work together to create the unique and multi-dimensional experience of listening to and experiencing music. They can be manipulated and combined in various ways by composers, performers, and producers to create diverse styles, genres, and moods in music.

The main purpose of music is multifaceted and can vary depending on cultural, social, and individual contexts. Music serves a wide range of purposes and functions, including:

1. Expression of emotion: Music has the power to convey and evoke a wide range of emotions, from joy and excitement to sadness and contemplation. It can serve as a vehicle for expressing and processing emotions, both for the listener and the musician/performer.
2. Communication: Music can be a means of communication, transcending language barriers and conveying messages, ideas, and stories. It can serve as a form of self-expression and a way for individuals or communities to share their thoughts, experiences, and cultural heritage.
3. Entertainment: Music is often used for entertainment purposes, providing enjoyment, relaxation, and recreation for listeners. It can be a form of leisure activity, socializing, or simply a source of pleasure and amusement.
4. Aesthetic experience: Music can be appreciated for its artistic and aesthetic qualities, including its beauty, creativity, and complexity. It can provide a sensory and intellectual experience that stimulates the senses, engages the mind, and nurtures the spirit.
5. Social cohesion: Music has a unique ability to bring people together and foster social cohesion. It is often used in communal settings such as concerts, festivals, and ceremonies, providing a shared experience and a sense of belonging among participants.
6. Ritual and ceremony: Music plays a significant role in various rituals and ceremonies, such as religious rituals, cultural ceremonies, and rites of passage. It can mark significant life events, create a sense of sacredness, and strengthen social bonds within a community.
7. Education and learning: Music is often used as a tool for education and learning, including music education in schools, teaching of musical skills and knowledge, and fostering cognitive, emotional, and social development in individuals of all ages.
8. Healing and therapy: Music has therapeutic effects and is used in various forms of music therapy for physical, emotional, and psychological healing. It can help reduce stress, anxiety, and pain, improve mood and well-being, and support emotional expression and processing.

In summary, the main purpose of music is multifaceted and encompasses expression of emotion, communication, entertainment, aesthetic experience, social cohesion, ritual and ceremony, education and learning, and healing and therapy. Music serves as a powerful and versatile form of human expression that has significant cultural, social, and individual significance.

Timbre (pronounced “tamber” or “tam-bur”) refers to the unique quality or character of a sound that distinguishes it from other sounds with the same pitch and volume. It is also known as tone color or sound color. Timbre is what allows us to distinguish between different musical instruments or voices, even when they are playing or singing the same pitch at the same volume.

Timbre is determined by several factors, including the harmonic content, envelope, and spectral characteristics of a sound. Harmonic content refers to the specific combination and strength of overtones or harmonics present in a sound, which gives it its unique tonal color. Envelope refers to the way in which a sound changes over time, including its attack (how it starts), sustain (how it sustains), and decay (how it ends). Spectral characteristics refer to the overall frequency distribution of a sound, which affects its timbral characteristics.

For example, when you hear a piano playing a middle C note, and then the same pitch played on a guitar or a violin, each instrument will have its distinct timbre due to differences in the harmonic content, envelope, and spectral characteristics of the sound produced by each instrument.

Timbre is an important aspect of music that contributes to its richness, expressiveness, and emotional impact. It allows musicians to create different moods or emotions through the use of different timbres, and it is often used creatively in composition, arrangement, and production to shape the overall sound and texture of a piece of music. Timbre is also used in sound design for film, video games, and other multimedia applications to create specific sound effects or atmospheres.

In summary, timbre refers to the unique quality or color of a sound that distinguishes it from other sounds, and it is an important aspect of music that contributes to its richness, expressiveness, and emotional impact.

Musical form refers to the structure or organization of a piece of music. It encompasses the way in which different musical sections are arranged and related to each other, creating a sense of coherence and shape within the composition. Musical form provides a framework for organizing musical ideas and elements, such as melody, rhythm, harmony, and texture, to create a meaningful and aesthetically pleasing musical experience.

There are various types of musical forms that have been developed and used throughout the history of music, including:

1. ABA Form: Also known as ternary form, this form consists of an initial section (A), followed by a contrasting section (B), and then a return to the initial section (A). It is a common form used in many classical, folk, and popular music compositions.
2. AB Form: Also known as binary form, this form consists of two contrasting sections (A and B), usually with different melodic or harmonic material. It is a simple and widely used form in many musical genres.
3. Rondo Form: This form features a recurring main theme (A) that alternates with contrasting sections (B, C, D, etc.), and then returns to the main theme. It is often used in classical music and can have a variety of patterns, such as ABACADA or ABABA.
4. Sonata Form: This is a complex form often used in classical music for longer compositions. It typically consists of an exposition (with contrasting themes), development (where themes are developed and varied), and recapitulation (where the initial themes are restated), among other sections.
5. Verse-Chorus Form: This is a common form used in many popular songs, consisting of verses (with different lyrics) that lead to a recurring chorus (with the same lyrics and melody), creating a memorable and catchy structure.
6. Theme and Variations Form: This form features a main theme that is followed by a series of variations where the theme is altered in various ways, such as rhythm, melody, or harmony. It allows for creative exploration and elaboration of a musical idea.

These are just a few examples of the many musical forms that exist. Musical form can be flexible and vary depending on the composer’s intention and the genre of music. Understanding musical form can help composers, performers, and listeners appreciate the structure and organization of a piece of music and how different musical elements are organized to create a coherent whole.

Musical intelligence, also known as musical aptitude or musicality, refers to an individual’s ability to understand, appreciate, and engage with music in various ways. It is one of the multiple intelligences proposed by Howard Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences, which suggests that intelligence is not solely measured by IQ, but can manifest in different forms, including musical intelligence.

Musical intelligence encompasses a range of skills and abilities related to music, including:

1. Musical perception: The ability to perceive and differentiate between different musical elements such as pitch, rhythm, melody, harmony, timbre, and dynamics.
2. Musical memory: The ability to remember and recall musical patterns, melodies, and lyrics.
3. Musical performance: The ability to play a musical instrument, sing, or compose music.
4. Musical analysis: The ability to analyze and interpret musical structures, forms, and styles.
5. Musical creativity: The ability to generate original musical ideas and compositions.
6. Musical appreciation: The ability to appreciate and respond emotionally to music, including understanding the cultural and historical context of different musical genres and styles.
7. Musical expression: The ability to express oneself through music, such as conveying emotions or personal experiences through songwriting or performance.

It’s important to note that musical intelligence can vary among individuals, and some people may have a natural inclination towards music while others may develop their musical abilities through education, training, and practice. Musical intelligence can be nurtured and developed through exposure to music, formal music education, and regular engagement with musical activities.

Musical intelligence has been linked to various cognitive, emotional, and social benefits, including improved cognitive skills, emotional regulation, creativity, and social bonding. It can also be a source of personal enjoyment, self-expression, and a means of connecting with others through the universal language of music.

Learning to compose music involves a combination of creativity, musical knowledge, and technical skills. Here are some steps you can take to begin your journey in composing music:

1. Develop your musical skills: To compose music, you need to have a solid foundation in music theory, which includes understanding scales, chords, harmony, melody, and rhythm. Study and practice these fundamental elements of music through books, online resources, or formal music lessons. It’s also essential to develop your skills on an instrument or voice, as this will allow you to experiment with different musical ideas and express yourself creatively.
2. Listen to a wide variety of music: Expand your musical horizons by listening to different genres, styles, and eras of music. Pay attention to the structure, form, instrumentation, and emotional impact of the music. Analyze the elements of music in different pieces and try to understand how they work together to create a specific mood or atmosphere.
3. Experiment with composition tools: Use composition tools such as notation software, digital audio workstations (DAWs), or even just pen and paper to start experimenting with composing your own music. Try writing melodies, creating chord progressions, or experimenting with different rhythms and harmonies. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes and take risks, as experimentation is a crucial part of the creative process.
4. Study the works of other composers: Study the works of famous composers from various musical periods and genres. Analyze their compositions and try to understand their creative choices, structure, and use of musical elements. This can provide you with inspiration and insights into different approaches to composition.
5. Develop your own musical voice: Experiment with different styles, techniques, and approaches to composition, and find your own unique musical voice. Don’t be afraid to be creative and original, as music composition is a highly personal and expressive art form. Embrace your own musical ideas, and strive to develop your own unique style and sound.
6. Seek feedback and learn from others: Share your compositions with others, whether it’s friends, teachers, or fellow musicians, and seek feedback on your work. Listen to constructive criticism and learn from others’ perspectives. This can help you refine your compositions, identify areas for improvement, and continue to grow as a composer.
7. Practice regularly: Like any skill, music composition requires practice. Set aside dedicated time for composing, and make it a regular part of your routine. The more you compose, the more you will develop your skills, creativity, and musical voice.

Remember, composing music is a journey that requires patience, perseverance, and practice. Be open to learning, experimenting, and taking risks, and enjoy the process of expressing your creativity through music.

Writing song lyrics can be a creative and fulfilling process. Here are some general steps to help you get started:

1. Choose a Topic or Theme: Decide what you want your song to be about. It could be a personal experience, an emotion, a story, a concept, or anything else that inspires you.
2. Brainstorm and Freewrite: Take some time to brainstorm ideas related to your chosen topic or theme. Write down any words, phrases, or images that come to mind. Freewriting, where you write without censoring or editing yourself, can also help you generate ideas.
3. Create a Song Structure: Decide on the structure of your song, which typically includes verses, a chorus, and possibly a bridge or pre-chorus. The chorus is usually the most memorable part of the song and is repeated multiple times, while the verses provide additional details or tell a story.
4. Choose a Rhyme Scheme: Decide on a rhyme scheme for your lyrics, which is the pattern of rhymes at the end of lines. Common rhyme schemes include AABB (where the first and second lines rhyme, and the third and fourth lines rhyme), ABAB, AAAA, or ABCB, among others. Rhymes can add musicality and flow to your lyrics.
5. Play with Word Choices: Experiment with different words and phrases to convey your message or emotions. Consider the mood, tone, and imagery you want to create. Use descriptive language, metaphors, similes, and other literary devices to paint a vivid picture in the listener’s mind.
6. Focus on the Melody and Rhythm: Remember that lyrics are meant to be sung, so consider the melody and rhythm of your song. The syllable count, stress patterns, and phrasing of your lyrics should fit well with the music. Play around with different melodies and rhythms to find the best fit for your lyrics.
7. Edit and Revise: Review your lyrics and make revisions. Cut unnecessary words or lines, refine your phrasing, and ensure that your lyrics flow smoothly. Consider seeking feedback from others to get fresh perspectives on your lyrics.
8. Polish and Finalize: Once you’re satisfied with your lyrics, polish them by checking for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors. Make sure your lyrics make sense and effectively convey your intended message or emotions.
9. Consider the Song’s Vocals and Music: Keep in mind that the vocals and music are crucial to a song’s overall impact. Consider how your lyrics will work in conjunction with the melody, instrumentation, and vocal performance.
10. Be Authentic: Lastly, be true to your voice and style. Write from your heart and be authentic in your lyrics. Your unique perspective and emotions will make your lyrics stand out.

Remember that writing song lyrics is a creative process, and there are no strict rules. Be open to experimentation, trust your instincts, and allow yourself to express your emotions and ideas freely. Happy songwriting!

In music, the term “pocket” is often used to describe a specific quality of rhythmic timing and feel in a performance, typically in the context of groove-based music such as jazz, funk, soul, and R&B. It refers to the tight, precise, and consistent rhythmic relationship between the different instruments or elements in a musical ensemble, creating a sense of cohesion and groove.

When a musical performance is said to be “in the pocket,” it means that the musicians are playing together with a tight sense of timing and groove, locking in their rhythms and accents in a way that feels unified and solid. The pocket is often associated with a groove or rhythm section, which typically includes instruments such as drums, bass, and rhythm guitar, as these instruments provide the foundation for the rhythmic feel of a piece of music.

Playing in the pocket requires a sense of precision, timing, and sensitivity to the other musicians in the ensemble. It involves maintaining a consistent tempo, staying in sync with the other musicians, and paying attention to subtle nuances of rhythm and groove. It also involves finding the right balance between playing tightly and staying relaxed, as the pocket can be described as a “sweet spot” where the music feels solid and unified without feeling overly rigid or stiff.

Musicians who are skilled at playing in the pocket are often highly sought after, as they contribute to the overall feel and groove of a musical performance, creating a sense of cohesion and energy that can captivate listeners and make the music come alive. Achieving a tight pocket requires practice, experience, and a keen ear for rhythm and groove, and it is an important aspect of many genres of music that rely on a strong sense of rhythm and groove as their foundation.