Advocate for Orff-Schulwerk

Orff-Schulwerk is an inclusive and dynamic approach to music education that has been transforming classrooms for decades. The American Orff-Schulwerk Association (AOSA) not only supports educators in implementing this approach but also encourages those trained in Orff-Schulwerk to share their knowledge and experiences with others. This page provides valuable resources to help you advocate for Orff-Schulwerk in your school, district, or community. Whether you’re speaking to parents, administrators, or fellow educators, the best advocates are your students. The links below share successful models from other teachers that will empower you to effectively communicate the benefits and principles of this innovative approach to music education.

The AOSA Resource Library contains tailored advocacy materials for boosting parent support of Orff Schulwerk, or promoting your programs to administrators and the community:

Students in Action

Share Video Vignettes: Build parent support by sharing brief videos from your music classroom. While performances and Informances are valuable, capturing everyday musical moments through video snippets can provide parents authentic glimpses of their child’s learning. Share these through your music webpage, social media, or parent newsletters.

Important: Always verify parental permissions before recording or sharing videos. Some parents may only consent to sharing within the school community, not publicly. For students without permission, use camera angles that capture their musical contribution while protecting their privacy (e.g., filming from behind).

Make Your Own Presentation

Personalize for your own advocacy presentation. Make a copy of this presentation and then use images of your students so it is represents your school setting. This presentation is based on “The Principles of Orff Schulwerk” article found in the Fall 2019 issue of The Orff Echo. Becoming familiar with these principles will help you make the most effective use of this presentation.

Orff Schulwerk in a NutshellDownload

Supporting Orff Schulwerk Teaching and Teachers

Build Your Community

Getting the word out about music education can build a sense of community pride, creating a foundation when seeking increased support or preventing cuts. Positive stories, especially those that publicize how important music is to students and parents, will help serve as an ambassador to parents, business leaders, school board members, legislators, and the community at large.

Tell the story of your classroom

Building Your Classroom Instrumentarium

Music Advocacy Through an Administrative Lens

Public Relations: Connecting with Your Community

Widening Your Impact