Avery Wilson, a 2013 graduate of Cooperative Arts & Humanities High School, brought his extraordinary talent to Madison Square Garden Monday night, performing the National Anthem before the third game of the NBA Finals. Wilson, a Broadway performer and alumnus of The Voice, delivered a rendition of the ‘Star-Spangled Banner’ that was part-Whitney, part-Handel, leaving the audience in awe.

Local Roots

Wilson’s journey to that moment started in New Haven, where he grew up surrounded by art and music. His dad, Gramen Wilson, plays the flute and is a part of New Haven’s broad cultural scene. Wilson began singing at a young age, feeling most free when he was able to sing. He attended Cooperative Arts & Humanities High School, where he met longtime teacher Harriett Alfred, who helped build the school’s music program from the ground up.

Alfred taught Wilson about stage presence, making sure his voice and body were warmed up before he performed, and learning to use all of his registers. Wilson’s talent was recognized by educators and peers alike, and he was a presence in the school’s hallways and classrooms, singing and practicing music with Alfred after class.

Rising Star

Wilson’s performance at Madison Square Garden was not his first time in the spotlight. He has performed on Broadway, played the Scarecrow in the 2024 adaptation of The Wiz, and has been a part of The Voice. Wilson will reprise his role singing the National Anthem tonight, as the New York Knicks face the San Antonio Spurs for the fourth game of the finals.

Original reporting: New Haven Independent — read the source article.