Walt Whitman senior Kalif Jones has been selected by the National YoungArts Foundation as one of the nation’s outstanding young artists. Kalif was selected from over 11,000 applicants representing a wide range of disciplines in the visual, literary, design, and performing arts.
The National YoungArts Foundation identifies and supports the next generation of artists; assists them at critical junctures in their educational and professional development; and raises appreciation for the arts in American society.
As you might expect, Kalif was chosen for this honor because of his incredible talent as a singer. While he enjoys playing the Cello in Whitman’s Symphonic Orchestra, Kalif’s future was set 13 years ago when he began singing and repeating in perfect pitch, anything he heard on his mom and dad’s radio or TV. He takes it all in stride though- “My voice does not define me,” said Kalif. “I’m a normal 17 year-old high school senior with typical thoughts like most kids my age.” Normal yes, but the National YoungArts Foundation judges have named Kalif one of the top five Classical Tenors in the Nation.
As part of the YoungArts New York recognition, in early May, Kalif was invited to participate in a series of workshops and to perform with some of the worlds greatest classical music personalities. This was not Kalif’s first time on the really big stage. When he was seven years old he was chosen to perform in the Metropolitan Opera with one of his all-time favorite tenors Placido Domingo. “This feels like the perfect cap from early childhood to graduating high school,” said Kalif who has decided to attend Westminster Choir College in the fall.
The path Kalif has chosen to take after graduation is not an easy one, but one that hopefully best prepares him for a bright future. There is the performing part that he has been so incredible at, and then there is the business part of the music industry, one that interests Kalif as well. “In five to seven years I see myself performing around the world as a tenor,” said Kalif, who admits to an adventurous side that craves travel more than anything. “At the same time I would like to be part of a large music corporation, helping set up programs.”
Kalif has thrived here in South Huntington’s schools. From Countrywood right on up through Walt Whitman his genuine personality has opened friendships that continue to grow and help define an exceptional young man. “I’m a regular person who genuinely cares about the rest of the world,” said Kalif. “I just love life…more than anything.”
Congratulations Kalif Jones, you make the South Huntington community proud!
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