Orff in Music

2nd graders on Alto Xylophones

Orff-Schulwerk is a child-centered approach 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 or special Orff instruments. 

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. Through the Orff approach students will observe, imitate, experiment, and create using speech, songs, movement, body percussion, pitched instruments (barred xylophones and metallophones), non-pitched instruments (drums, claves, triangles, ect.), and recorder.

Kindergartners - Movement and Playing the Bass Bars

Moving around the music room and playing Bass bars are always a big hit!!  

The special Orff melody instruments include wooden xylophones and metal glockenspiels that offer good  sound immediately. Played together as in a small orchestra,  their use helps children become sensitive listeners and considerate participants.

The Glockenspiels and Soprano Xylophones!

Soprano and Alto Glockenspiels and soprano xylophones make up  this great sounding group!  

Orff-Schulwerk happens in a non-competitive atmosphere where one of the rewards is the pleasure of making good music with others.

Playing Drums, Cabasa, Finger Cymbals

Unpitched percussion instruments are fun to play!  

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.