Music teacher Iain Pole introduced Zac to the clarinet and a bond was formed.

The 12-year-old Laurieton Public School student is in the thick of practice for his role in the NSW Department of Education and Training State Schools Junior Wind Band due to perform at the Sydney Opera House in August.

The best young musical talent from public schools all over the state was selected via auditions to form the band. The group will have two days of music workshops and rehearsals together before their big night.

But for now it’s practice at home.

“I practice about half an hour to an hour a day,” said Zac.

Mum Jusinta Collins interrupts and says, “Tell the truth Zac. It’s constant!”

Music teacher Iain Pole said music practice for Zac is not a chore and after playing with his four younger brothers and sisters will take himself to his bedroom to rehearse or work on his own songs.

Zac also plays keyboard, saxphone, flute, xylophone and pan pipes.

“He was able to read music quickly and can transpose pieces to other instruments, it’s amazing,” proud mum Ms Collins said.

Mr Pole said Zac’s a natural.

“He’s such a keen little musician. He’s one of those people that music just makes sense to. Being selected in the state band is the musical equivalent of representing your region in athletics,” Mr Pole said.

“He’s a brilliant kid and has progressed quickly. It was great that after he started with the trombone he had the confidence to try something else.”

Amongst all the practice for the August performance, Zac is also studying for his grade three music exams and performances with the Camden Haven Concert Band.

Mr Pole, who is also the concert band’s musical director, was so impressed with Zac’s talent and dedication he was invited to join the Camden Haven Concert Band 12 months ago. At the time he was their youngest member.

Zac has also applied for musical scholarships to St Columba Anglican College in Port Macquarie and The Armidale School, where he has participated in workshops at their conservatorium.

“If he does get a scholarship to Armidale, the band will miss him,” Mr Pole said.

“He is loved by every member aged 8 to 80 and we all wish him well.”

Parents Jusinta Collins and Dave Widders expressed their appreciation to Mr Pole, whom they said, goes above and beyond the call of duty to help Zac achieve all he can.

“With four other young children, ‘Uncle’ Iain really helps out a lot. He was the one who took Zac to the auditions for the state band at Woolgoolga,” Ms Collins said.

“Zac wants to follow music and the scholarships will mean he can follow his dream.”

Only Dave will accompany his son to the Opera House for the August festival and he admitted he may shed a tear or two when he sees ‘his boy’ on the best musical stage in Australia.