Fletcher, A. J. (Alfred Johnston), 1887-1979

Born in the Western N.C. mountains to a Baptist minister and his wife, seventh of fourteen children. Earned his law degree at Wake Forest. Opened law practice in Fuquay-Varina, N.C., and later founded Capitol Broadcasting Company in Raleigh, N.C. During the late 1940's he gathered support for and established the Grass Roots Opera company to take opera to rural areas, to introduce young people to opera, and give young singers professional experience. As the company grew and began to tour in other parts of the United States, the name was changed from "Grassroots Opera" to "National Opera Company". Fletcher died in 1979. After his death, the Alfred J. Fletcher Foundation continued supporting the arts, particularly music in educational institutions.