Integrating Orff and Kodály into an Elementary Music Curriculum
When We Start Out...
When I first stepped into the world of elementary music 30 years ago, I was completely green, with just one methods class under my belt. Back then, the typical path for music ed majors was choir, orchestra, or band—and I was firmly on the band track. But little did I know that my journey would take me into the heart of elementary general music, sparking a passion that would shape my entire career. Along the way, I earned my Master of Science in Music Education, deepening my knowledge and fueling my dedication to the art of teaching music.
Starting out as a novice music teacher, I was thrust into 12 different preschools and elementary schools, teaching a piano program with no keyboards. It was an adventure—and a crash course in making the most of limited resources! Over the years, I discovered the transformative power of approaches like Orff, Kodály, and Dr. Feierabend’s methods, and began integrating technology to enhance music creation for every student. I also dove deep into Mind Brain Education, Design Thinking, and more.
How Do I Mix It All Together?
The question that so many music teachers face: how do I bring all these techniques and tools together to support my students? Should I choose one approach or combine them? Should I stick to a curriculum, or integrate others?
The answer is simpler than it seems: Do what works best for you and your students. Whether that means blending Orff with Kodály, adding tech tools to a set curriculum, or taking the best of both worlds, the key is flexibility. What matters most is creating an environment where your students can explore, create, and thrive as young musicians.
Your Pedagogy, Our Curriculum: Integrating Orff and Kodály with MusicFirst Elementary
If you're wondering how to bring it all together in your own classroom, join me and Eric Young on Wednesday, October 15, at 8 p.m. EDT for a special webinar. You’ll walk away with actionable ideas, a ready-to-use lesson, and a free trial of MusicFirst Elementary—a complete K-5 music curriculum packed with resources and tools that empower both you and your students.
