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The Melody Lane Performing Arts Academy has a rich 25 year history. Here's a little peek into how the whole thing
got started.
In 1981, Alan and Peggy Akin moved their family from North Hollywood, CA, to Yakima, WA. Alan and Peggy wanted
a safer, and more wholesome place to raise their family, and Yakima seemed like it fit the bill perfectly. Peggy had
grown up in Toppenish, and had dreamed for 13 years of bringing her family back home.
In order to make a little extra money for the family, Peggy started a musical pre-school and a small performing group
in her basement. That was where the Melody Lane Singers were born. It started small. Just Peggy's children
and some of the kids from her church.
From those humble beginnings, Melody Lane has grown a lot. Peggy moved out of her basement and into the 3rd floor
of the First Christian Church in downtown Yakima in 1984. In 2001, Melody Lane moved to its current location in
The Nob Hill Plaza. In 2006, Tony and Amy Akin became the directors of Melody Lane and continue the excellent tradition
started in 1981. Thousands of students have been involved with Melody Lane over the years and have had priceless experiences
that they will never forget. Here are just a few of the highlights:
- Performing for President Reagan at a $1000/plate gala in 1984.
- Featured performance at the International Rotary Convention.
- Key performances during Washington State Centenial, Yakima Centenial, and Statue of Liberty Bi-Centenial.
- Performances and tours in Washington D.C., New York City, Bahamas, Canada, Hawaii, Philadelphia, Disneyland, Disneyworld,
as well as all over the Northwest.
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