Kodály certification is available in three teaching phases: early years (early childhood education), primary school and secondary school. Within each phase, different modules must be completed to qualify for a Kodály certification for that level. These modules are:
Musicianship: it develops your own music skills such as music literacy and comprehension. This module works in levels of proficiency from levels 1-8 and can be done with any of the teaching phases, for example: you can do early childhood methodology and level 5 musicianship together because it is based on your musical skills.
Methodology, repertoire & practicum (teaching techniques): these modules include the principles and tools to teach Kodály in the specific teaching phase. There are three levels in each teaching phase which refer to the ages of the children.
Other modules such as research and conducting: those completing early childhood methodology are required to complete a research module, while those completing primary and secondary methodology are required to complete a choir conducting module.
Choir: choir singing is required as the final module.
As there is currently no certified Kodály institution in South Africa, the Cuskelly College of Music from Australia is providing its course content and expertise directly in South Africa.
Please read through our INFORMATION DOCUMENT for extra info and guidelines.
This year we offer modules in ALL THREE teaching areas: Early Childhood, Primary and Secondary (high school)!
Usually, completing a course of this nature would entail travelling abroad for a two-week period. However, we've devised an accessible approach right here in South Africa: 1. we're bringing the presenters to you, and 2. we're offering a hybrid course, combining online and in-person presentations.
The online hours will be completed 6 weeks before the course for two hours on Saturdays.
Take note: where two levels are stated together (eg. 1 & 2, 4 & 5), both levels' contents will be addressed in the same class, but you choose which level's assessment tasks you complete.
Early Childhood level 1
Primary level 2
Secondary level 1
Early Childhood level 1
Primary level 2
Secondary level 1
Level 1 & 2
Level 4 & 5
Level 1 & 2
Level 3 & 4
These options include all the modules and the methodological phases are distinguished by options A, B.1 and B.2.
· Full course A - Early Childhood 1: musicianship, methodology, materials & practicum, research, choir.
· Full course B.1 - Primary 2: musicianship, methodology, materials & practicum, conducting, choir.
· Full course B.2 - Secondary 1: musicianship, methodology, materials & practicum, conducting, choir.
These options include only methodological modules and musicianship, without conducting and choir modules. The methodological phases are distinguished by options C.1 and C.2. Note that early childhood is only available as a full course option.
· Half course C.1 - Primary 2: musicianship, methodology, materials & practicum.
· Half course C.2 - Secondary 1: musicianship, methodology, materials & practicum.
This option includes only the conducting and choir modules without and methodological modules or musicianship.
It is your choice if you want to complete modules for assessment towards an International Kodály certificate. Just let the lecturer know at the beginning of each module. Those who don't do assessments will still receive a certificate of attendance.
The Methodological levels refer to the ages of the learners in that teaching phase. While emphasis will be placed on a specific age range, the principles, tools, and materials (including songs and games) presented can be effectively utilized and adjusted for both older and younger learners. Attending methodology classes in other phases is highly advantageous, providing a comprehensive understanding of the entire educational landscape and facilitating a more holistic and purposeful teaching approach.
Musicianship and Conducting are the only modules that levels refer to your musical skills. Please check the standards of each level or module as explained below.
The link below indicates the solfège proficiency level you will be required to sing during the course. This is just a guideline. If you have a music degree or solid music background, we advise that you start with levels 4 & 5 (Advanced Musicianship).
1. If you have never conducted before or have some experience in conducting but have not had any formal training and are unsure of the basics, select level one.
2. If you know you have an appropriate conducting posture, mastery of the 2- and 3-beat patterns, command of cues and cut-offs on the first beat of the bar, and can provide the starting pitch with a tuning fork, select level 2.
3. If you know you have an appropriate conducting posture, mastery of the 2-, 3-, and 4-beat patterns, command of cues and cut-offs on the first and last beats of the bar, and can provide the starting pitch with a tuning fork, select level 3.
4. If you know you have an appropriate conducting posture, mastery of the 2-, 3-, and 4-beat patterns, command of cues and cut-offs on all beats, can provide the starting pitch with a tuning fork and can work well with an accompanist, select level 4.
Participating in methodology classes across various phases offers significant benefits, fostering a comprehensive understanding of the entire Kodály approach to music education - enabling a more holistic and purposeful teaching approach. Our presenters, who are master educators, are dedicated to assisting individuals regardless of their background in musicianship. For instance, if you are a novice in music reading and solfa singing, you will receive support in musicianship levels 1 & 2. Conversely, if you possess proficiency in music reading and solfa singing, you will find challenges in musicianship levels 4 & 5.
Given the expansive nature of the Kodály approach in music education, revisiting the same module is never time misspent. This practice ensures the internalization of principles, skills, and tools at an even deeper level than before, thereby enhancing your capabilities as an educator.
Selected bursaries are available. Teachers or students who wish to attend but do not have the finances to pay the full fees are invited to send us an email (kodalyssa@gmail.com) with a short CV and clear motivation as to why you require a bursary.
Applications for bursaries close on 22 April 2024.
The online hours will be conducted on Zoom and the in-person sessions will be held at the University of Pretoria.