Zion United Church of Christ, 2nd and Iron Streets in Lehighton, will host its eighth annual music academy Aug. 6-10.

The program will be held at the church from 6:30-8 p.m. each day, is completely free, and is open to children grades K-12 and beyond.Preschool children are also welcome when accompanied by a parent or guardian. Light refreshments will also be served each night.The program is under the co-direction of Brad and Laura Cressley, and is designed to expose children to different musical opportunities.Those students who participate in middle school and high school bands are encouraged to join the band programs. Children who enjoy singing are encouraged to join the choral events.The program will also offer free recorder instruction to those students interested in learning how to play this wind instrument.Most elementary students from the Lehighton area grades 4-and-beyond have these instruments, but due to a generous donation from a member of Zion, recorders will be supplied to those students who are interested in learning and don't have their own instrument.Additionally, a "recycled rhythm" program will be offered. This unique craft class creates musical instruments out of recycled products and household items. Students of all ages enjoy this part of the program.The program is designed so the participants can take advantage of all of the offerings, or just those they are interested it. Although students are encouraged to attend each night, it is not mandatory.The theme of this year's program is "The Magical Music of Disney," and will feature Disney music from movies, television, Broadway and Disney parks. Bands, chorus and musical Theater group will be focusing on Disney music.At 7 p.m. Aug. 10, the participants will present a concert demonstrating the songs that were worked on throughout the week, as well as a presentation of crafts that were completed.The program will also feature solo work from those students who wish to prepare solos, duets or ensemble work.The program is made possible through generous donations from members and friends of the music department at Zion UCC.Register online at

www.zionlehighton.org by clicking the link in the "The Magical Music of Disney" news item, or they may register by just showing up at the Zion by 6:20 p.m. any evening of the program.For more information, call 610-392-1810.