THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Friday, July 12, 1996 TAG: 9607120052
SECTION: DAILY BREAK PAGE: E14 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Groovy Sapien
LENGTH: 90 lines
JARRETT ALI BOYD is a unique note in the music of life.
Like most young people, he is interested in music. Unlike many, Jarrett's musical interests do not gravitate to rap or rock. An African-American, Jarrett has found his passion is opera, an area normally dominated by whites. In fact, the Bayside High School graduate is very proud that he is helping to tear down a racial barrier.
Jarrett is quick to give an impromptu opera performance and to translate the Italian words into English. He explains that he and the other students attending the Governor's School for the Arts in Norfolk are expected to gain an understanding of the many languages used in their performances.
``They don't let us sing it unless we understand what it means,'' Jarrett says.
Jarrett's talents have kept him busy. During school, his day began at 7:35 a.m. at Bayside High School. There, he took core subjects: English, math, social studies and science. When most were enjoying lunch, Jarrett was catching a bus to Kemps Landing Magnet School. There, he connected with the first of two other buses needed to reach The Governor's School at Old Dominion University.
His classes, centering on music, were demanding and continued for four hours. Leaving ODU at 5, it was back to home where singing practice, homework and chores awaited him. He might've been in bed by 11.
``Sleep comes when necessary,'' Jarrett said. ``It is not mandatory.''
My full, entire birth name: Jarrett Ali Boyd
I was born: Feb. 2, 1978
Job: Performer (opera)
Bros and sisters: I have one brother, Tracy Boyd.
Educationally speaking, I am . . . a graduate of Bayside High.
My school in three words: rewardable, different and different
The killer day means . . . staying at home and sleeping.
Boy, I was pretty smart when . . . I auditioned and was accepted to the Governor's School for the Arts.
But I sure felt like an idiot after I realized how difficult and time consuming the Governor's School was.
When I have a crazy midnight snack craving, I want. . . cucumbers with salt and vinegar.
My personal oscars go to: my mom, my English teacher (Donna Elliot) and my best friend, Montre.
The song of the century is: ``We Are the World''
The grooviest musical artist is: D'Angelo
When I don't have anything else to do, I'm . . . I'm reading a book, practicing skills on the piano or listening to opera (very loud opera - loud enough to vibrate the walls).
Best date I've had: None in particular. Just hanging out is great.
And the worst? All my dates, generally speaking, have been good.
If I could change one thing about me I . . . I would change my attitude. At times it tends to get me in trouble.
I wish my parents . . . I wish my Mom didn't have to work as much as she has to.
The best place for mouth-watering chow is: Taco Bell.
I love shopping at: Macy's.
The ultimate night on the town would include: The ultimate night on the town would include a limousine and an exquisite restaurant with friends.
I make special arrangements to watch. . . any musical or opera on the stage.
The last time I had a vacation . . . was (a few) months ago when I was in New York City participating in a workshop at the Juilliard School.
My best job: was being able to play King Melchior in the opera, ``Amahl and the Night Visitors.''
And the worst? was working at Arby's.
I can easily brag about . . . my personality and talents. I am always easy to get along with.
In 10 years, I'd like to be . . . onstage at the Metropolitan Opera House in New York City.
If I could change one thing in America I would . . . end racial discrimination.
My heroes are: Leontyne Price, a famous African-American opera singer, Geraldine Boone and Robert Brown.
I am totally unique because: I am a black opera singer.
What makes you mad? Racial discrimination
If a film were made about your life, what would be the dramatic turning point? When I went to New York City to perform
Who would star in it? Neil Carter, Montre Burton and myself
I should be a veejay on MTV because . . . I love to talk and do wild and crazy things. I love music and I am different!
If I was a guest on a talk show, it would be: Oprah
My life summed up in four words: Zealous, accomplished, sensuous and illustrious. ILLUSTRATION: MIKE HEFFNER\The Virginian-Pilot
Baritone Jarrett Ali Boyd will attend the Shenandoah Conservatory
for Music in Winchester this fall. by CNB