What is Orff Schulwerk?

Orff Schulwerk is a way to teach and learn music. It is based on things children like to do: sing, chant rhymes, clap, dance and keep a beat on anything near at hand. These instincts are directed into learning music by hearing and making music first, then reading and writing it later. This is the same way we all learned our language. Orff Schulwerk is designed for all children, not just the privileged, talented or selected few. There is a place for every child and each contributes according to ability. Orff Schulwerk happens in a noncompetitive atmosphere where each one of the rewards is the pleasure of making good music with others. When the children want to write down what they have composed, reading and writing find their moment. Orff Schulwerk uses poems, rhymes, games, songs and dances as examples and basic materials. These may be traditional or original. Spoken or sung, they may be accompanied by clapping and stamping or by drums, sticks and bells. The special Orff melody instruments include wooden xylophones and metal glockenspiels that offer good sound immediately. Played together in a small orchestra, their use helps children become sensitive listeners and considerate participants.

Why is it important in music education?

Current research indicates that children need a balance between emotional and intellectual stimulation to develop as healthy human beings. Orff Schulwerk provides this balance through total, active involvement in music making.

Orff Schulwerk is a teaching and learning approach, not a method. Its uniqueness lies in the incorporation of the spoken word with singing, movement and instrument playing as learning tools. With Orff Schulwerk, improvisation and composition start students on a lifetime of knowledge and pleasure through personal musical experience.

Who was Carl Orff?

Composer Carl Orff (d. 1982) and his associate Gunild Keetman evolved the basic texts for the Schulwerk as models for teachers worldwide. Now translated into eighteen languages, Orff Schulwerk is based on the traditional music and folklore of each country where it is used. At present more than 10,000 teachers in the United States have found the Schulwerk the ideal way to present the magic of music to their students. Intensive, three-level Orff Schulwerk training courses help to prepare teachers and therapists for the challenge of developing music programs adapted to the needs of their students. For more information: The American Orff-Schulwerk Association www.aosa.org