Zac On The Sax

Find out about this talented musician and how he got to be just so good on that smooth sax.

(photo credit Kristen McCarthy)

Zac Brooks (‘13) has always liked the sweet sound of that golden instrument known as the saxophone — but it wasn’t until 4^th grade that he began learning the difficult craft of that sweet wind instrument.

It wasn’t always smooth sailing with the sax for this talented senior

“In middle school, I was going to quit playing,” Zac says. “But my mom encouraged me to keep playing and I’m so glad that I did.”

It was only through his hard work in middle school that Zac was able to achieve his acute skill level. He has also come to meet many interesting people through his playing.

“I met one of my life long friends, Mr. Smooth,” the senior says. “He encouraged me to audition for Honors Band when I came to Christian Brothers”

Zac is the only person in the 2013 Senior Class who has been in Honors Band all three years and it shows in his playing. Many would probably remember Zac for his melodic Sax lead during the performance of “Baby, It’s Cold Outsdie” at the 2012 Christmas concert.

“I value him a lot. He works really well with his peers,” says Band Director Mr. Travis Maslen, “He’s a good saxophone player.”

Zac is always glad to perform at Christian Brothers concerts because of his love of the Christian Brothers music department.

“Maslen’s great,” he says glowingly. “Our whole music department is pretty awesome.”

The best part about Zac is that he hasn’t lost sight of the true reason for playing music: to have entertain others and have fun doing it.

His playing also goes beyond Christian Brothers.

“I did two tracks with my brother’s dad and one with my brother,” he says.

The whole of the Christian Brothers community looks forward to hearing them, just as they look forward to watching Zac’s continued passion for the saxophone throughout his career.

“I’m always gonna play,” he says, “It’s a good form of relaxation.”