IT IS amazing that saxophonist Lachlan McLennan does not run out of breath – as he plays in four different school bands.

Lachlan, 13, only picked up a saxophone for the first three years ago, but appears to be making up for lost time.

At St Andrew's High, in Waddon, he is a member of the school's 1st Band, Wind Band, Saxophone Ensemble and Soul Jazz Club.

With the last two he regularly performs at jazz nights hosted by Croydon restaurants such as Zizzi and Pizza Express.

"It is pretty nerve-racking playing in the restaurants because you don't want to make a mistake," he said. "But it's good when it turns out well.

"I don't know what I'll do in future, but I wouldn't say no to becoming a professional musician."

When asked who his favourite players are Lachlan is quick to point out the importance of developing an individual style.

He said: "It doesn't really worry me who my favourite saxophonist is – it's about playing the songs well."

Lachlan started learning the saxophone after his family, who now live in Addiscombe, emigrated from Australia in 2007.

He is not the only musician in the family – his mother Leisa is a church organist and flute player while his brother Kallan, 11, plays the clarinet and sister Laura, 7, is about to start violin lessons.

Lachlan also excels at more than music – picking up several academic end-of-year school awards, including the Headmaster's Award two years running.

He also plays in the school cricket team, is a student librarian, and has had ICT work displayed at an exhibition in London, winning a camcorder for his school with his efforts.

Leisa said: "He works very hard and is very conscientious.

"You expect to see your children play the school concert – but when you go to a restaurant where people have paid money to see him, you just think 'wow'."