BSK Newsletter

Big Sky Kodály is a brand new OAKE chapter in Montana, so let’s unpack some questions you might have!

What is OAKE?

OAKE stands for Organization of American Kodály Educators. This is a national organization whose mission is to support music education of the highest quality, promote universal music literacy, and lifelong music making.

What is Kodály? 

Zoltan Kodály was a Hungarian musicologist who revolutionized music teaching, first in Hungary and then throughout the world. He was a composer and musician who saw a need for changing the way music was taught. Believing that music was for everyone and crucial for one’s personality and intellectual development, Kodály famously said, “music is a spiritual food for everybody.”

What is the Kodály methodology?

Kodály teaching is more of an approach or philosophy than a prescribed methodology. Certainly, a comprehensive curriculum of carefully taught concepts is an important tennant, but the philosophy is more than that! Kodály teachers value experiential learning, the voice as a child’s first instrument, the music of one’s culture, folk songs and folk dance, music literacy, and the development of a complete musician. 

How can I become a Kodály inspired teacher?

There are many ways to begin your Kodály inspired journey. Taking levels is the most direct way to receive the training you might desire.There is not a levels training program currently in Montana, but check out our Levels Programs tab on the BSK website for places to take Kodály levels in the western part of the United States.  If traveling out of state for levels is not doable, you can look to our new chapter, Big Sky Kodály for some great workshops in the future. Our first workshop will be January 20, 2024 and feature a fabulous Kodály educator and national presenter, Amy Abbott. 

How do I get involved with the Big Sky Kodály Chapter?

You can join our mailing list by filling out the form on the “Contact Us” portion of our website. For access to great online trainings and a wonderful community of teachers, join OAKE at oake.org and select Big Sky Kodály as your local chapter. By joining the chapter, you’ll stay informed about chapter workshops and trainings and receive Kodály inspired teacher tips.