The artistic director and conductor of the Heartland Men’s Chorus, Shawn Cullen, shares his journey from a K-12 music educator to leading an LGBTQ chorus. Discover how he embraced the seasonal changes of Kansas City and his passion for creating inclusive musical experiences. The upcoming show "Y’all Means All" aims to celebrate country music through an LGBTQ lens, promoting diversity and inclusion.

A Musical Journey to Kansas City

Cullen’s path to Kansas City is marked by a rich background in music education and conducting. After a fulfilling career as a K-12 music teacher and adjunct professor at the University of Arizona, he found himself drawn to the doctoral program at UMKC. This move brought him not only professional growth but also a new appreciation for the changing seasons, particularly the vibrant fall colors that stand in stark contrast to the desert landscapes of his past.

His transition from trumpet player to vocalist and finally to conductor has been instrumental in shaping his unique approach to music. Cullen emphasizes the importance of people as the true instrument in his performances. He reflects on growing up immersed in music, dancing to La Cage aux Folles in his living room, and eventually pursuing formal studies in trumpet. His parents’ unwavering support played a crucial role in his decision to follow his passion for music, even during challenging times when the competitive nature of the industry seemed daunting.

Reimagining Country Music for Everyone

The inspiration behind the Heartland Men’s Chorus’s new show, "Y’all Means All," lies in celebrating country music while fostering inclusivity. Traditionally, country music has often been associated with heterosexual narratives. However, Cullen and his team aim to create a more diverse experience that resonates with the LGBTQ community. By reinterpreting classic country themes through an LGBTQ lens, they hope to offer a fresh perspective that everyone can enjoy.

Country music has a strong tradition of storytelling, and this show seeks to expand those stories to include all voices. Cullen explains that many within the LGBTQ community have long felt excluded from mainstream country music. They often find themselves relating to love songs by imagining themselves in different roles. Through "Y’all Means All," the Heartland Men’s Chorus aims to reclaim this space and present country music in a way that embraces diversity. The show promises to be both entertaining and thought-provoking, offering audiences a new way to experience and connect with country music.