Brett not only helped kick off the Games and ArtsFest in style, with his performance at the opening ceremonies — he also surprised this year’s rock performers by dropping in on their rehearsals to sing and share his experiences with them. Of his Idol experience, which he described as surreal, the best moment was finding out he made the Top 24, while building friendships along the way. When asked about his worst moment, he replied with great sincerity, “I didn’t have one. I spent the whole time enjoying myself. I made friends with everybody.” Viewers remember Brett’s kindness to Jacee Badeaux, who couldn’t find a group to join. The eventual winner, Scott McCreery, even noted Brett’s generosity. Brett loves to write music, including a very motivating song called “Bulletproof Vest,” about the importance of loving and accepting yourself. Brett has had to deal with bullying in school, although that’s much less of an issue now that he’s famous. “Some people [in my school] look at me as the same kid, but a lot of people have more respect,” he says. “A lot of people didn’t know I could sing.” Once he graduates from high school next year, Brett hopes to attend a performing arts college in either New York or Los Angeles. Music remains at the center of his universe. “I’m doing what I love to do,” he said, “performing in a lot of different places, like Major League Baseball games and Jewish community events. I’ve grown up at the JCC and I’m happy I can still be a part of it.” Jennifer Garvin is the marketing coordinator at the Adolph & Rose Levis JCC in Boca Raton, Florida.
13