The American Orff-Schulwerk Association (AOSA) is proud to announce Karen Medley as the recipient of the 2026 Distinguished Service Award, presented to individuals who have demonstrated exemplary service at the national level and made outstanding contributions to the growth of Orff Schulwerk in the United States.
Karen’s journey with AOSA spans five decades, beginning when she discovered Orff instruments in a closet as an undergraduate at the Eastman School of Music. She became an AOSA member in 1975 and volunteered at the 5th National Conference in Boston before serving as recording secretary for the Greater Rochester Chapter. That early spark ignited a lifetime of service.
A graduate of the University of Memphis with a master’s degree concentrating in Orff Studies, Karen has dedicated her career to urban music education, teaching in the Rochester, Memphis, and Clark County (Las Vegas) school districts. Her commitment to reaching students in urban schools remains a defining thread of her professional identity.
As a teacher trainer, Karen has instructed Levels Courses in Alaska and Rochester — including both the Eastman and Nazareth courses — and led Master Classes in Georgia. In 2024, she mentored an apprenticing recorder teacher, continuing to invest in the next generation of Orff educators.
At the national level, Karen served on the AOSA Board of Trustees for more than thirteen years as Regional Representative, Chair of the Post Level III Committee, member of the Guidelines Revision Committee, and National Conference Chairperson for four conferences. She has presented at chapter workshops across the country and internationally in New Zealand. She currently serves as President of the New England Orff Chapter.
Karen’s unfailing service has left a gentle and lasting mark on AOSA. She has touched the lives of thousands of teachers and embodies everything this award represents.
The Distinguished Service Award will be presented at the 2026 AOSA National Conference in Richmond, VA..