LETHBRIDGE ORFF CHAPTER
Music for Children - Carl Orff Canada - Musiques Pour Enfants
The Orff Approach
Carl Orff (1895 - 1982)
A Method for Every Elementary Child
The Orff - Shulwerk Method
The Orff approach to music eduction is a creative teaching method that combines all aspects of the performing arts. A sense of play and active music-making occur through the child's total involvement in rhythm, movement, speech, chant, mime, drama, singing, playing instruments and improvisation. It's a learning setting in which each child's creativity is nurtured and self-esteem is built up. This is music for the whole person and is related to every area of the child's school experience.
Unique Characteristics of the Orff Approach
1. The foundation of the learning sequence begins with language, rhythm and rhyme. Language is accessible to everyone and each child can be quickly engaged.
2. Early on in an Orff class, children experience playing pitched and non-pitched percussion instruments. This gives them opportunity to be actively and expressively involved.
3. The entire process has an emphasis on improvisation and discovery. This is developed sequentially through movement, dance, mime, speech, song or playing instruments. Improvisation is then natural and non-thrreatening. This removes the fear of failure.
4. Movement, body awareness and motor skills are important elements of an Orff approach. Brain research shows that when both sides of the brain are involved, learning is less difficult and more relaxed. Activities involving language and analysis on the left side of the brain and motor coordination, artistic talent and imagination on the right side work together to reinforce learning.
5. Cultural stories and legends from Canada and elsewhere are inter-woven through all aspects of the approach.
6. This 'elemental style' of Orff music means that it is within the range for everyone to learn and actively experience. It creates a place of belonging, where the child is engaged in joyful music-making in an atmosphere of play and discovery.
Adapted from:
Guidelines for Orff Teachers
Level One Course Outline
American Orff-Shulwerk Association