NATCHEZ &8212; Local parents have an opportunity to have their children learn some musical ability as well as some table etiquette this summer.

The Children&8217;s Prep Music Studio will be start its hands-on music training classes today at the Natchez Seniors Center at 800 Washington St.

Classes will start at 3:30 p.m. for 5 to 8-year olds and 4:15 p.m. to 5 p.m. for 3 and 4-year olds.

The Prep studio has a musical playground atmosphere stocked with instruments, props and equipment to improve a child&8217;s self-esteem, concentration and growth development.

Instructor Kathleen Mackey King said that she is also offering a mini-camp July 12-15 for students who are from out of town.

&8220;It&8217;s a chance to instill some music appreciation in children at young age, and it gives them so much confidence in themselves,&8221; King said.

Cheryl Morace and the staff at Natchez Junior Cotillion will also have &8220;short summer takes&8221; for etiquette fun to teach both boys and girls proper table manners.

There will be three sessions for the little girls&8217; 5-7, tea party beginning June 12-16, June 26-30 and July 17-21.

Boys will participate in two sessions of beginners&8217; table manners from June 19 through 23, July 10-14.

Each class will be 90 minutes, beginning at 1 p.m., and will be held at 1117 Main St.

For information about the Prep Music Studio, contact King at (601)445-5980.

For information about the Natchez Junior Cotillion mini sessions contact Morace at (601) 442-6847 or e-mail at

mourshill@bellsouth.net

.