Larry Dresner, a Freeport native and a seasoned composer, recently launched a compelling new music video titled “Bring America Together.” His intent is to address the country’s yawning political and cultural divide, using music to inspire reflection and, he hopes, unity.
The video, featuring a blend of musical theater, opera, traditional choral and rap styles, was recorded in August at Dream Recording Studios, in Bellmore, and filmed by MHz Media Group.
The inspiration for “Bring America Together” stemmed from Dresner’s frustration with the current political climate.
“I was just very angry at all the divisiveness and finger-pointing done in politics today, where they’re trying to score points with their voters rather than working together to solve problems,” Dresner, 68, explained. “I wanted to bring that to the attention (of) people in a way that might be accessible through art, and see if we can make a difference.”
“(I) wrote the lyrics first, and I tried to keep them not specific and more general, so that it wouldn’t offend people and could reach a broad audience,” he explained. “And then, once the lyrics are set, then I just set it to music. And I wanted to incorporate different styles of music, which included Broadway theater style, some rap music, a style of music called Americana … so it’s just a combination of the different styles to make the message more effective.”
The video opens with Joseph Anthony-Smith, a Freeport-based vocalist, and includes a solo performance by Stephanie Workman, who is also from Freeport. Dresner held open auditions around Long Island to choose the remaining singers, ensuring a mix of talent that would bring the composition to life.
“The process was pretty simple,” said Anthony-Smith, who, like Dresner, attended the New England Conservatory of Music, in Boston, where he studied opera. “He sent me the sheet music and a guided melody track so that I could kind of pick up what the melody was supposed to be … We collaborated on that a little bit, and then, as far as recording, it was pretty straightforward.”
“I really appreciate what he’s trying to do with the messaging,” Anthony-Smith said. “We’re living through such unprecedented, divisive times that to see someone trying to put something out there that is meant to bring folks together — meant to kind of like rally folks into a more positive mindset — (is something I) always want to be a part of. So I was just really, really honored that he thought of me to be a part of it.”
"“My part in the production of Bring America together was very unifying in a time of uncertainty.," said Stefanie Workman, another Freeport-based singer. "I think we all could use a reminder of what the principles are that bring us together - the hope for an inclusive and peaceful place to live”
As Dresner describes it, “Bring America Together” is “more than a song; it’s a movement.” The project is in keeping with his belief that art should not only entertain but also challenge societal norms and encourage reflection.
“I just hope that people will hear the message without getting triggered by any political points or something, without pointing fingers,” he said. “They could just be open to receiving the message, and what it’s trying to say might help them change their behavior or outlook a little bit.”
Dresner’s compositions have been performed by ensembles like the Metropolitan Flute Orchestra and the American Chamber Ensemble. He has also written for musical theater, and has served on the boards of the Long Island Arts Council at Freeport and the Long Island Composers Alliance.
“I’m getting a positive, encouraging response when people have seen it,” he said of “Bring America Together,” “but I would like to reach a wider audience to be more effective.”
The video is now available on YouTube, at bit.ly/48mmOly.