This page shows lapsed, in-progress and upcoming sessions and events for which you’ve registered. Register for more, and see all in-progress and upcoming events, via the Sessions, Programs and Events page!
Having trouble finding rooms? Check out the floor plans on the Central Bank Center website!
Conference notes for all sessions from the 2025 Conference in Lexington KY can be found in the AOSA Resource Library.
Friday, January 10, 2025
Friday, February 7, 2025
Friday, April 18, 2025
Session Block (2 events)
12:00 AM
Saturday, April 26, 2025
Session Block (10 events)
12:00 AM
Saturday, May 3, 2025
Saturday, May 10, 2025
Saturday, May 31, 2025
Tuesday, July 1, 2025
Friday, August 1, 2025
Saturday, August 16, 2025
Session Block (4 events)
12:00 AM
Thursday, August 21, 2025
Saturday, August 23, 2025
Session Block (8 events)
12:00 AM
Thursday, August 28, 2025
Saturday, August 30, 2025
Saturday, September 6, 2025
Session Block (8 events)
12:00 AM
Sunday, September 7, 2025
Saturday, September 13, 2025
Session Block (11 events)
12:00 AM
Session Block (2 events)
8:00 AM
Friday, September 19, 2025
Saturday, September 20, 2025
Session Block (18 events)
12:00 AM
Monday, September 22, 2025
Thursday, September 25, 2025
Session Block (2 events)
12:00 AM
Saturday, September 27, 2025
Session Block (5 events)
12:00 AM
Saturday, October 4, 2025
Session Block (11 events)
12:00 AM
Friday, October 10, 2025
Saturday, October 11, 2025
Session Block (6 events)
12:00 AM
Saturday, October 18, 2025
Session Block (13 events)
12:00 AM
Monday, October 20, 2025
Saturday, October 25, 2025
Session Block (13 events)
12:00 AM
Saturday, November 1, 2025
Saturday, November 15, 2025
Wednesday, November 19, 2025
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
No contact pickup on tables. Find your name tag with banquet ticket, pronoun stickers, and a neck wallet. Onsite registration is open.
7:00 PM - 7:55 PM
Lisa Hewitt
Rosemary Pilonero
Is this your first time to conference? Join this session for some Southern hospitality, insider information, and tips and tricks. We look forward to meeting our new attendees and assisting you with getting the most out of your first conference experience.
8:00 PM - 9:15 PM
Michael Vasquez
Join your AOSA community in some dances that are sure to put some joy in your step. This session is a great time for finding new friends and colleagues or enjoying your time with old friends. Download session notes
Thursday, November 20, 2025
7:30 AM - 4:00 PM
No contact pickup on tables. Find your name tag with banquet ticket, pronoun stickers, and a neck wallet. Onsite registration is open.
Session Block (9 events)
8:00 AM
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM
Christine Ballenger
Use a children’s book to create an experience, together! Bring your Volumes and other resources as tools to use IN SESSION. Level I recommended. Download session notes
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM
Beth Melin
Explore your inner landscape through creative movement. Discover and strengthen the invisible bonds that connect you to yourself and to others
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM
Elisabeth Crabtree
Rachel Kershner
Taking inspiration from Carl Orff’s opera, Die Kluge, and the volumes, explore traditional riddles through composition, dramatization, and movement. Download session notes
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM
Lesley Dennis
Corynn York
Looking for innovative ways to incorporate movement with students? We will explore new and unique movement opportunities using QuaverMusic resources. Download session notes
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM
Katrina Hedrick
Explore ways to use Elemental Process teaching to create a meaningful musical experience for older beginners. Download session notes
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM
Mary Knysh
Explore drumming fundamentals, world rhythms, and brain-based classroom management strategies to create dynamic, inclusive, and engaging music-learning environments. Download session notes
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM
Shelly Smith
Kristine Wolfe
What is Orff Schulwerk? Find out through fun, active music-making activities! No experience needed. Please sign up for both sessions. Download session notes
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM
*Not a session* Visit this room if you need a calm space to decompress.
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM
David Row
This is not a sit and strum workshop. Move, explore, play, and imagine the possibilities of the ukulele as an elemental instrument. Download session notes
Session Block (8 events)
9:45 AM
9:45 AM - 11:00 AM
Beth Melin
Explore your inner landscape through creative movement. Discover and strengthen the invisible bonds that connect you to yourself and to others
9:45 AM - 11:00 AM
Jody Petter
Explore, create and experience how to engage the littlest learners through games, manipulatives, literature, non-traditional instruments and rhythmic building blocks. Download session notes
9:45 AM - 11:00 AM
Sharon Mazion
Marjie Van Gunten
Explore and create dynamic lessons with the body and voice as the primary instruments. Experience joyful play in a learning community. Download session notes
9:45 AM - 11:00 AM
Thomas Pierre
Explore how using Laban’s Movement Effort Actions during choral rehearsals can enhance the expressiveness of your choir’s performances. Download session notes
9:45 AM - 11:00 AM
David Row
This is not a sit and strum workshop. Move, explore, play, and imagine the possibilities of the ukulele as an elemental instrument. Download session notes
9:45 AM - 11:00 AM
Mary Knysh
Explore drumming fundamentals, world rhythms, and brain-based classroom management strategies to create dynamic, inclusive, and engaging music-learning environments. Download session notes
9:45 AM - 11:00 AM
Shelly Smith Kristine Wolfe
What is Orff Schulwerk? Find out through fun, active music-making activities! No experience needed. Please sign up for both sessions. Download session notes
9:45 AM - 11:00 AM
*Not a session* Visit this room if you need a calm space to decompress.
11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Visit our exhibitors for the latest products and information. View Marketplace exhibitor map
11:10 AM - 11:45 AM
Linda Hines Marjie Van Gunten
Craft an article with step-by-step guidelines from Echo and Reverberations editors. Includes writing time and tailored feedback to get you off to a strong start!
11:50 AM - 12:25 PM
Linda Hines Marjie Van Gunten
Craft an article with step-by-step guidelines from Echo and Reverberations editors. Includes writing time and tailored feedback to get you off to a strong start!
Session Block (8 events)
12:30 PM
12:30 PM - 1:45 PM
Allen Dejan Jr.
Explore rhythms, melodies, and improvisational elements of Black American Music through speech, song and movement. Learn a jazz poem to gain fluency with the swing feel.
12:30 PM - 1:45 PM
Christine Ballenger
Use a children’s book to create an experience, together! Bring your Volumes and other resources as tools to use IN SESSION. Level I recommended. Download session notes
12:30 PM - 1:45 PM
Crystal Pridmore
Explore practical classroom management and SEL techniques for trauma-informed music classrooms to reduce teacher stress and increase joy. Download session notes
12:30 PM - 1:45 PM
Austin Cooper
Embrace your inner child to explore the myriad of ways in which dramatic play can lead to joyful music learning. Download session notes
12:30 PM - 1:45 PM
María Vanesa Utz
Intercultural experience with natural materials connecting the significance between nature and music of the Latin American communities. Download session notes
12:30 PM - 1:45 PM
Aaron Ford
Create a movement story using Mad Libs writing prompts and a looping Möbius strip. Learn a Möbius strip circle dance. Download session notes
12:30 PM - 1:45 PM
Thomas Murphy
Jump into the drum circle to explore your rhythmic teaching skills. If you can say it, you can play it! Download session notes
Session Block (9 events)
2:15 PM
2:15 PM - 3:30 PM
Leah Kmetz
Discover and experience supports for special education students to be successful by modifying instruments, orchestrations, and the use of technology. Download session notes
2:15 PM - 3:30 PM
John Ballantine-Pollock
Learn how to introduce and explore rhythms using children’s literature while singing, moving, composing, and playing! Download session notes
2:15 PM - 3:30 PM
Amanda Dodd
Kelly Mraz
Learn Orff Schulwerk based strategies for improving ensemble skills in chorus. Create an arrangement of a folk song to use with your choral group. Download session notes
2:15 PM - 3:30 PM
Aaron Ford
Create a movement story using Mad Libs writing prompts and a looping Möbius strip. Learn a Möbius strip circle dance. Download session notes
2:15 PM - 3:30 PM
Karin Prouty
Gerard Stokes
Use diverse children’s literature, original speech, and inspiration from the volumes to explore human connections through hair! Download session notes
2:15 PM - 3:30 PM
Thomas Murphy
Jump into the drum circle to explore your rhythmic teaching skills. If you can say it, you can play it! Download session notes
2:15 PM - 3:30 PM
Chapter Relations
This meeting is for elected chapter officers and begins at 2:00 pm. Learn about how AOSA can support your chapter and network with other leaders.
4:00 PM - 5:25 PM
Adam Depew, director
2025 Southdale Orff Ensemble
The Southdale Orff Ensemble is the musical ambassador of Southdale Elementary in Kettering, Ohio. Performing at venues across our community, this non-audition, after-school ensemble features 35 fifth grade students. The goal of the group is to provide students with a comprehensive and culminating elementary ensemble experience. Download program
5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
Visit our exhibitors for the latest products and information. View Marketplace exhibitor map
Session Block (3 events)
8:00 PM
8:00 PM - 9:15 PM
Rachel Aupperle
Whether you’re in the States or across the pond, learn the basic steps and try them out in circles, long ways sets, and maybe a square. Download session notes
8:00 PM - 9:15 PM
Rob Amchin
Brent Holl
A real Old Time play-a-long session featuring tunes and songs of Appalachia. Bring your own folk-style instrument and your voice! Download session notes
8:00 PM - 9:15 PM
Katie Traxler
Drum and dance with a Cajun Louisiana twist! Learn a drum ensemble piece, create a simple jazz melody perfect for a Mardi Gras parade, sing with Louis Armstrong, and add Grandma’s Gumbo! It’s time for Louisiana Lagniappe! Download session notes
Friday, November 21, 2025
7:30 AM - 4:00 PM
No contact pickup on tables. Find your name tag with banquet ticket, pronoun stickers, and a neck wallet. Onsite registration is open.
Session Block (7 events)
8:00 AM
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM
Katie Traxler
Harness the creativity and imagination of your students by creating a music and movement piece from scratch- the ultimate risk taking adventure! Download session notes
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM
Thomas Borden
Using rhythm and movement exploration to create tableaus, tonic and supertonic triads build melodic improvisational opportunities within MFC musical compositions. Download session notes
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM
Daniel Rhode
Discover ways to new ways to use elemental form to structure and guide your students’ wild creativity into satisfying compositions. Download session notes
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM
Lynn Kleiner
Experience how different sizes of recorders are effectively used throughout the curriculum, some played by the teacher, some for students. Download session notes
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM
Yeshima
Experience Mindful-Based SEL and group drumming to enhance self-awareness, self-management, and relationship skills for teachers and students. Download session notes
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM
Dena Byers
Increase your understanding of Orff Schulwerk with a closer look at ways to sing, move, and play! Great for those who have completed Level I.
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM
*Not a session* Visit this room if you need a calm space to decompress.
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Visit our exhibitors for the latest products and information. View Marketplace exhibitor map
Session Block (7 events)
9:45 AM
9:45 AM - 11:00 AM
Doug Goodkin
A children’s demonstration class showing how meticulously planned activities depend upon the spontaneous back and forth between teacher and student. Download session notes
9:45 AM - 11:00 AM
Katie Traxler
Harness the creativity and imagination of your students by creating a music and movement piece from scratch- the ultimate risk taking adventure! Download session notes
9:45 AM - 11:00 AM
Angela Carota
Through improvisation, explore modes, describe the mood of each. Then, in small groups, compose in modes to reflect a theme. Download session notes
9:45 AM - 11:00 AM
Lynn Kleiner
Experience how different sizes of recorders are effectively used throughout the curriculum, some played by the teacher, some for students. Download session notes
9:45 AM - 11:00 AM
Yeshima
Experience Mindful-Based SEL and group drumming to enhance self-awareness, self-management, and relationship skills for teachers and students. Download session notes
9:45 AM - 11:00 AM
Lisa Odom
Improvisation can be musical at all ages! Three original pieces will be presented to explore melodic & movement improvisation in creative ways! Download session notes
Session Block (8 events)
12:30 PM
12:30 PM - 1:45 PM
Kristine Wolfe
Create inspiring musical experiences using pieces from the volumes and original works, as well as empowering text and your imagination! Download session notes
12:30 PM - 1:45 PM
Lisa Odom
Improvisation can be musical at all ages! Three original pieces will be presented to explore melodic & movement improvisation in creative ways! Download session notes
12:30 PM - 1:45 PM
Jamie Jun
Experience South Korean folk songs and games through a variety of percussion instruments and traditional Korean drums. Download session notes
12:30 PM - 1:45 PM
Matt Shea
Using children’s literature and the Schulwerk to create a performance incorporating creative movement, improvisation, clapping games, body percussion, and more! Download session notes
12:30 PM - 1:45 PM
Alicia Knox
Explore how social connection and autonomy can help keep Middle School students engaged in creative music-making. Download session notes
12:30 PM - 1:45 PM
Victor Lozada
Manju Durairaj
Dr. Nicole Robinson
This session, led by the VPs of DEIA, is centered on personal and professional growth of Orff Schulwerk teachers in the areas of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Access. The session includes facilitating courageous conversations in the music class room and utilizing the process and philosophical framework of Orff Schulwerk to create safe, brave and welcoming spaces in the classroom.
12:30 PM - 1:45 PM
Kris Olson
Process a piece from Spielbuch für Xylophon II that was simplified for a 4th grade class with no Orff experience. Download session notes
2:00 PM - 2:30 PM
Erin Oxford, Director
Pace Performers
Pace Performers is the premier performance choir from Kay Pace Elementary School of the Arts, a public elementary performing arts magnet school. Founded in Jonesboro, GA in 2018, Pace Performers consists of students in 3rd, 4th, and 5th grades who meet weekly after school to rehearse. Download program
Session Block (4 events)
2:35 PM
2:35 PM - 3:35 PM
Interested in international Orff Schulwerk study? Learn how to get connected with the International Connections Committee.
2:35 PM - 3:35 PM
Karen Benson
Want to become a level course instructor? Reveiw the AOSA Apprentice Program and how to become a Teacher Educator.
2:35 PM - 3:35 PM
Researchers share their Orff Schulwerk based research studies.
2:35 PM - 3:35 PM
Linda Hines Marjie Van Gunten
Want to get more involved in AOSA through leadership, writing for The Orff Echo or Reverberations, or other possibilities? Come by for an informal chat with AOSA leadership!
Session Block (9 events)
3:45 PM
3:45 PM - 5:00 PM
Kristine Wolfe
Create inspiring musical experiences using pieces from the volumes and original works, as well as empowering text and your imagination! Download session notes
3:45 PM - 5:00 PM
Jeannyvett Colón
Create an inclusive experience linking Spanish literature and picture books with Music for Children volumes, focusing on diversity and inclusion. Download session notes
3:45 PM - 5:00 PM
Jennifer Blakeman
Experience samples of songs, rhymes, and themes used to connect learning year to year and across age ranges. Download session notes
3:45 PM - 5:00 PM
Kris Olson
Process a piece from Spielbuch für Xylophon II that was simplified for a 4th grade class with no Orff experience. Download session notes
3:45 PM - 5:00 PM
Gather with retirees and teachers with many years if experience to visit and enjoy the Schulwerk!
3:45 PM - 5:00 PM
Alicia Knox
Explore how social connection and autonomy can help keep Middle School students engaged in creative music-making. Download session notes
3:45 PM - 5:00 PM
Daniel Jolly
Explore several classic drama games. Learn to process and integrate the games or incorporate their structures into your music room. Download session notes
Session Block (3 events)
8:00 PM
8:00 PM - 9:15 PM
Jean Barrack
Karen Petty
Come learn about these teachers/composers and join us in playing, singing and dancing compositions from each author. Download session notes
Saturday, November 22, 2025
Session Block (9 events)
8:00 AM
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM
Ani Silva-Berrios
Learn songs and games from Latin America. Explore with limited instruments, playful experiences, and modern twists! Download session notes
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM
Katie Traxler
Experience simple games and activities that strengthen student relationships and encourage students to take risks as leaders and improvisers. Download session notes
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM
Richard Lawton
Learn to improvise on recorder effectively and soulfully while jamming along to classic rock, blues, and R&B tunes. Download session notes
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM
BethAnn Hepburn
Explore ways to use Orff process teaching in the intermediate choral setting to create with choir students. Strategies for developing independent partwork and using melodic ostinato parts to create student-arranged pieces. Download session notes
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM
Jason Bash
Caterpillars, Toads, and Dumplings… Oh, my! Expand your nursery rhyme horizons through body percussion, storytelling, and dramatic play. Download session notes
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM
Jenn Dennett
Griff Gall
Build dance vocabulary through a purposeful sequence of folk dance experiences, culminating in the creation of an original folk-style dance. Download session notes
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM
Daniel Jolly
Explore several classic drama games. Learn to process and integrate the games or incorporate their structures into your music room. Download session notes
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM
*Not a session* Visit this room if you need a calm space to decompress.
9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Visit our exhibitors for the latest products and information. View Marketplace exhibitor map
Session Block (9 events)
10:15 AM
10:15 AM - 11:30 AM
Katie Traxler
Experience simple games and activities that strengthen student relationships and encourage students to take risks as leaders and improvisers. Download session notes
10:15 AM - 11:30 AM
Ani Silva-Berrios
Learn songs and games from Latin America. Explore with limited instruments, playful experiences, and modern twists! Download session notes
10:15 AM - 11:30 AM
BethAnn Hepburn
Explore ways to use Orff process teaching in the intermediate choral setting to create with choir students. Strategies for developing independent partwork and using melodic ostinato parts to create student-arranged pieces. Download session notes
10:15 AM - 11:30 AM
Craig Taylor
Explore extended recorder techniques (SATB) creating bird calls, songs and sonate inspired by field recordings and Andean art. Download session notes
10:15 AM - 11:30 AM
Stefan Wolf
Learn how to use popular music repertoire and structures to create engaging creative musical experiences for elementary-aged students. Download session notes
10:15 AM - 11:30 AM
Jenn Dennett Griff Gall
Build dance vocabulary through a purposeful sequence of folk dance experiences, culminating in the creation of an original folk-style dance. Download session notes
10:15 AM - 11:30 AM
Sara Alipanah
Experience fall, winter and spring activities through singing, moving, instrument playing, dramatic play, and story books for your littlest musicians. Download session notes
10:15 AM - 11:30 AM
Ramon Jackson
Chelsea Thiel
Explore practical strategies for incorporating the recorder with band instruments, student choice, and improvisation into band rehearsals. Download session notes
12:00 PM - 12:30 PM
Ashley Sumner
Kathryn Wigger
Trebel Makers
The Treble Makers are a group of 4th and 5th grade musicians who practice before school to create, improvise, and perform music on percussion instruments. We are students from Tully and Farmer Elementary in Jefferson County Public Schools. we perform for our schools and community throughout the year. Download program
Session Block (8 events)
1:00 PM
1:00 PM - 2:15 PM
David Thaxton
Explore and create science-based music and movement from layered harmonies, melodies, rhythms, and textures of original, composed rounds. Download session notes
1:00 PM - 2:15 PM
Jason Glashauser
Experience some creative possibilities of the Rhythmische Ubung. Then make a new piece using R.U. excerpts for your students. Download session notes
1:00 PM - 2:15 PM
Shelly Smith
Experience a detailed process for teaching folk dance using a collection of dances that build upon previously learned skills. Download session notes
1:00 PM - 2:15 PM
Sara Alipanah
Experience fall, winter and spring activities through singing, moving, instrument playing, dramatic play, and story books for your littlest musicians. Download session notes
1:00 PM - 2:15 PM
Rody J. Huertas
Learn, explore and experience Afro-Puerto Rican cultural genres through instruments, rhythms, games and dances inspired by traditional practices. Download session notes
1:00 PM - 2:15 PM
*Not a session* Visit this room if you need a calm space to decompress.
1:00 PM - 2:15 PM
Dr. Nicole Robinson Manju Durairaj Victor Lozada
Learn about AOSA’s DEIA rationale, volunteering to be on the Incident Response Team (IRT), and Incident Response protocols. Share suggestions, concerns, and actionable steps to ensure that AOSA continues to be a welcoming place for all. This session will be in-person and also via Zoom.
Session Block (7 events)
2:30 PM
2:30 PM - 3:45 PM
David Thaxton
Explore and create science-based music and movement from layered harmonies, melodies, rhythms, and textures of original, composed rounds. Download session notes
2:30 PM - 3:45 PM
Alison Mahal
Sue DeHart
The members of the AOSA Affinity Group on Neurodiversity and Individuals with Disabilities will facilitate a panel discussion and question and answer opportunity on their lived experiences in the classroom and their work in supporting AOSA members and their students.
2:30 PM - 3:45 PM
Denise Mills
Increase retention and engagement in the music room, by building Anchor songs focusing on community, core concepts, and creativity. Download session notes
2:30 PM - 3:45 PM
Shelly Smith
Experience a detailed process for teaching folk dance using a collection of dances that build upon previously learned skills. Download session notes
2:30 PM - 3:45 PM
Kathleen McBee
Learn the importance of mindfulness for your students and yourself. Explore activities that foster mindfulness in and out of the classroom. Download session notes
2:30 PM - 3:45 PM
Rody J. Huertas
Learn, explore and experience Afro-Puerto Rican cultural genres through instruments, rhythms, games and dances inspired by traditional practices. Download sesssion notes
2:30 PM - 3:45 PM
*Not a session* Visit this room if you need a calm space to decompress.
6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Superfecta
Tickets available with registration. No on-site sales available. Table seating opens in October.
Saturday, December 6, 2025
Session Block (2 events)
12:00 AM
Saturday, January 10, 2026
Session Block (2 events)
12:00 AM
Saturday, January 17, 2026
Session Block (2 events)
12:00 AM
Saturday, January 24, 2026
Session Block (13 events)
12:00 AM
Session Block (2 events)
8:00 AM
Saturday, January 31, 2026
Session Block (4 events)
12:00 AM
Saturday, February 7, 2026
Session Block (6 events)
12:00 AM
Sunday, February 8, 2026
Saturday, February 21, 2026
Session Block (9 events)
12:00 AM
Thursday, February 26, 2026
Saturday, February 28, 2026
Session Block (6 events)
12:00 AM
Saturday, March 7, 2026
Session Block (12 events)
12:00 AM
Saturday, March 14, 2026
Session Block (5 events)
12:00 AM
Friday, March 20, 2026
Saturday, March 21, 2026
Session Block (8 events)
12:00 AM
Friday, March 27, 2026
Saturday, March 28, 2026
Session Block (4 events)
12:00 AM
Saturday, April 4, 2026
Saturday, April 11, 2026
Session Block (6 events)
12:00 AM
Saturday, April 18, 2026
Session Block (10 events)
12:00 AM
Monday, April 20, 2026
Saturday, April 25, 2026
Session Block (5 events)
12:00 AM
Saturday, May 2, 2026
Session Block (2 events)
12:00 AM
Saturday, May 9, 2026
Saturday, May 30, 2026
Thursday, August 13, 2026
Wednesday, November 4, 2026
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM @ Hall B
No contact pickup on tables. Find your name tag with banquet ticket, pronoun stickers, and a neck wallet. Onsite registration is open.
7:00 PM - 8:00 PM @ B21A
Lisa Hewitt Rosemary Pilonero
Is this your first time to conference? You are invited to join this session for insider information, and tips and tricks. We look forward to meeting our new attendees and assisting you with getting the most out of your first conference experience.
Session Block (2 events)
8:00 PM
8:00 PM - 9:15 PM @ E11ABC
Kelly Whisnand
Experience body percussion through the elemental sequence of speech, movement, and music. Participants will engage in a process-based approach that begins with steady beat and progresses through patterning, layering, improvisation, and composition. Through exploration and play, we will examine how body percussion strengthens internal pulse, rhythmic independence, and ensemble awareness. Activities are adaptable for a variety of grade levels and designed for immediate classroom use.
8:00 PM - 9:15 PM @ B21C
Tom Pierre
This session immerses participants in gospel traditions through active music-making. Experience singing, movement, and interactive rhythmic expression in authentic gospel style. Learn how culturally responsive strategies empower diverse learners while creating, improvising, and performing together in ways that celebrate culture, identity, and artistry.
Thursday, November 5, 2026
Session Block (8 events)
8:00 AM
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM @ B15ABC
Jennifer Booshan
Explore early elementary creative movement. Get students out of “mime” mentality and into artful creation. Experience literature to inspire artful movement without prior knowledge or skill.
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM @ B21B
Jennifer Prestridge
Experience playful recorder strategies that connect movement, voice, and instruments and are accessible for learners of varying skill levels.
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM @ B21C
Thomas Murphy
Are your classroom instruments limited? Expand opportunities through group rotations and find alternative ways to make music. Compose Orff arrangements pairing multiple students per instrument. No one gets left out!
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM @ E10AB
Allison Croskey
Arrr matey! Prepare for adventures of buried treasure, dastardly pirates, and sword battles! Explore and create across the musical seas.
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM @ E11ABC
Dawn Abed
Experience lessons for tubanos, hand drums, and unpitched percussion crafted from MFC, Vol. 1 and the Rhythmische Übung with words to pair with fun children’s literature.
Session Block (8 events)
9:45 AM
9:45 AM - 11:00 AM @ B15ABC
Joani Brandon
Betsy Greene
Come experience joyful music making which follows the 8-part workout from First Steps in Music while integrating the Orff approach with creative, student-centered activities for PreK–2 learners.
9:45 AM - 11:00 AM @ B21A
Elisa Seppänen
The Song of Water is a creative music education workshop where rhythm, movement, and voice merge into a shared experience. Inspired by water, participants explore music’s role in fostering empathy, connection, and meaning in times of global crisis. Drawing on Orff-based approaches, the session nurtures creativity, collaboration, and expressive learning through active participation.
9:45 AM - 11:00 AM @ B21B
Charissa Duncanson
Come celebrate your communities identity through music! Sing, move, create, and empower student voice and choice while weaving literature and community elements into your classroom.
9:45 AM - 11:00 AM @ B21C
Chris McDowell
Explore how the magic of Orff process teaching and Dalcroze eurhythmics can lead to a better understanding of the identity and function of rhythms in 6/8 time.
9:45 AM - 11:00 AM @ E10AB
Kateri Miller
Intentionally connect objectives to a book! Newer children’s books will demonstrate the true intention of discovering and teaching musical objectives and how to assess.
9:45 AM - 11:00 AM @ E11ABC
Kristine McDonald
Discover a playful, sequenced approach to classroom drumming through children’s literature. Starting in Kindergarten, this progression moves from simple story-based sound effects to complex rhythmic patterns. The journey culminates in a three-part drumming ensemble, offering a perfect blend of literacy, play, and high-level performance.
11:15 AM - 12:15 PM @ E24AB
Linda Hines Marjie Van Gunten
Craft an article with step-by-step guidelines from the Echo and Reverberations editors. Includes writing time and tailored feedback to get you off to a strong start! Bring your own lunch.
12:25 PM - 3:30 PM @ E10CD
Brent GaultSteven Robbins
Julie Scott
Wendy Valerio
This session focuses on activities that promote aural understanding of harmonic chord changes from four perspectives: Eurhythmics, Kodály, Orff Schulwerk, and Music Learning Theory. Teachers who are members of the Alliance for Active Music Making and steeped in their respective pedagogies will lead hands-on lessons that include singing, moving, and playing instruments. This event comes in two blocks: block 1 from 12:30p – 1:45p, and block 2 from 2:15p – 3:30p. By registering for this session, you should commit to attending both blocks.
Session Block (7 events)
12:30 PM
12:30 PM - 1:45 PM @ B21A
Elisa Seppänen
The Song of Water is a creative music education workshop where rhythm, movement, and voice merge into a shared experience. Inspired by water, participants explore music’s role in fostering empathy, connection, and meaning in times of global crisis. Drawing on Orff-based approaches, the session nurtures creativity, collaboration, and expressive learning through active participation.
12:30 PM - 1:45 PM @ B21B
Charissa Duncanson
Come celebrate your communities identity through music! Sing, move, create, and empower student voice and choice while weaving literature and community elements into your classroom.
12:30 PM - 1:45 PM @ B21C
Rachel Rivera
Discover the magic of children “at play” and “in motion.” Explore the power of movement elements and other ideas including children’s literature to promote playful learning in the music classroom.
12:30 PM - 1:45 PM @ E10AB
Erin Ellington
Dr. Karen Thomas
Explore improvisation, creativity, and arts integration through children’s literature and Reader’s Theatre, culminating in a performance that uses the Orff Schulwerk process to enrich storytelling through music, movement, and expression.
12:30 PM - 1:45 PM @ E11ABC
Tara Clayburn
Tara Clayburn is the Lower School Music & Movement Teacher at The Potomac School in McLean, VA. She is a Teacher Educator for AOSA, and presents professional development workshops frequently. She received her Orff-Schulwerk levels certification from The University of Kentucky, and studied at the Orff-Institute in Salzburg Austria.
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM @ E24AB
Chapter Relations
This meeting is for elected chapter officers and begins at 2:00 pm. Learn about how AOSA can support your chapter and network with other leaders. Note that this event runs until 3:30p, so don’t register for any events in that timeframe!
Session Block (6 events)
2:15 PM
2:15 PM - 3:30 PM @ B21B
Mary Knysh
Explore inclusive drumming and movement activities that develop steady beat, cross-lateral coordination, and expressive storytelling through multisensory, brain-based strategies designed for young children and special needs learners.
2:15 PM - 3:30 PM @ E10AB
Michael Mello
This session looks to move beyond black-and-white photos of New Orleans music and experience, create, and interact with the vibrant, authentic modern traditions.
2:15 PM - 3:30 PM @ E11ABC
Tara Clayburn
Tara Clayburn is the Lower School Music & Movement Teacher at The Potomac School in McLean, VA. She is a Teacher Educator for AOSA, and presents professional development workshops frequently. She received her Orff-Schulwerk levels certification from The University of Kentucky, and studied at the Orff-Institute in Salzburg Austria.
2:15 PM - 3:30 PM @ B21C
Rachel Rivera
Discover the magic of children “at play” and “in motion.” Explore the power of movement elements and other ideas including children’s literature to promote playful learning in the music classroom.
Session Block (4 events)
8:00 PM
8:00 PM - 9:15 PM @ E11ABC
Chris Judah-Lauder
Explore techniques, improvisation and sequenced process for creating and
playing successful and exciting student compositions using hand drums,
congas, and other surprises.
8:00 PM - 9:15 PM @ B21C
Drue Bullington
Fun, accessible rounds offered for exploration through singing, movement, and playing instruments! BYO Recorder, Ukulele, and any puppets or new instruments you bought at the marketplace you want to take for a spin!
8:00 PM - 9:15 PM @ B21A
Freedom Brass
David Dockan
Old favorites meet fresh new beats in this high-energy folk dance experience! With DJ David spinning and Freedom facilitating the fun, you’ll laugh, move, and rediscover the joy of dancing together. Get ready for an unforgettable evening that leaves you inspired, energized, and smiling.
Friday, November 6, 2026
Session Block (9 events)
8:00 AM
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM @ B21C
Adam Depew
Embark on an astronomical journey into the “shining stars” of Schulwerk, uncovering some of the true masterpieces of the volumes and supplementals. Come along as we dive deep into the illuminations created by some of the most recognizable constellations of the night sky. Connecting musical artistry with celestial wonder!
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM @ E10CD
Ardith Collins
Increase your understanding of Orff Schulwerk with a closer look at ways to sing, move, and play! Great for those who have completed Level I.
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM @ B21B
Linzie Mullins
Explore strategies to plan fast-paced music lessons that turn transitions into active learning, using kitchen-style preparation to create seamless movement, purposeful micro-activities, and continuous rhythmic discovery—every second counts.
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM @ B15ABC
Charlie Tighe
From visual art to music, participants will use paintings by Paul Klee to explore, improvise, and create through the voice (speech and song), instruments (pitched and unpitched), and creative movement.
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM @ Hall C
Elisa Seppänen
An eco-social music workshop inspired by Finnish music education and Orff-based approaches. Through voice, rhythm, and creative collaboration, participants explore listening, empathy, and our connection to the living world.
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM @ E10AB
Melissa Blizzard
Words come alive through movement, music, and playful games! Transform your words into movement and music while exploring the power and importance of the words we choose to use with each other.
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM @ B21A
Scott Roether
Embolden student creativity with traditional and adapted materials through sailors, their knots, and seafaring life. Be inspired by life at sea while adapting a piece from Music for Children, Volume I.
Session Block (9 events)
9:45 AM
9:45 AM - 11:00 AM @ B21A
Alexandra Coghill
Ebise Tolessa
Experience Ethiopian pentatonic scales through children’s games, dances, and improvisation. Learn a few Amharic words and connect with regional traditions through movement, music, and play.
9:45 AM - 11:00 AM @ B21C
Anthony Molinaro
Awaken your inner artist through Dalcroze-style movement, and learn how to create meaningful movement experiences that fit your classroom context. Cultivate a responsive teaching practice that addresses students needs and harnesses teacher creativity! Use innovative tools to create magical moments of movement.
9:45 AM - 11:00 AM @ E10AB
Christian Hauser
Explore how dance, theatre, drama and music share common terminology such as contour/flow, texture/space, color/timbre. We’ll investigate famous works of art and make them come alive musically!
9:45 AM - 11:00 AM @ Hall C
Elisa Seppänen
An eco-social music workshop inspired by Finnish music education and Orff-based approaches. Through voice, rhythm, and creative collaboration, participants explore listening, empathy, and our connection to the living world.
9:45 AM - 11:00 AM @ B15ABC
Michael Groff
Even the most hesitant movers can be successful when given the right framework! Come explore ways to introduce creative movement through a variety of prompts from nature, literature, and everyday life.
9:45 AM - 11:00 AM @ B21B
Identify and connect skills needed to help students develop resilience with lessons in the music classroom. Explore lessons using Orff Schulwerk process to address the identified skills.
Session Block (7 events)
12:30 PM
12:30 PM - 1:45 PM @ B15ABC
Chelsea Short
Explore the volumes through play! Learn how to create meaningful experiences with students by extracting parts of volumes pieces and having students create using their personal interests.
12:30 PM - 1:45 PM @ E11ABC
Cori Patterson
Experience and explore Japanese culture and stories through vocal and creative movement exploration, simple songs, soundscapes, haiku, taiko drumming and cultural connections.
12:30 PM - 1:45 PM @ B21A
David Dockan
Explore how DJ controllers and AI can be incorporated into the Orff Schulwerk classroom as a teacher resource and a creative student experience.
12:30 PM - 1:45 PM @ B21B
Drue Bullington
Ideas anyone can take home to their classroom and begin to incorporate in the practice. A gem from the schulwerk will be chosen by the group and then a series of unpredictable events will guide our musical adventure to a delightful culmination!
12:30 PM - 1:45 PM @ B21C
Maribeth Yoder-White
Explore practical, engaging strategies for guiding children toward healthy, confident singing. Session highlights include age-appropriate vocal techniques, warmups, and rehearsal strategies to motivate young singers to grow and blossom.
12:30 PM - 1:45 PM @ E10AB
Melanie Kang
This session explores the vibrant heartbeat of Chinese Hani music through traditional bamboo stick dance and songs. The session will demonstrate how the music and dance elements flourish within an Orff Schulwerk setting. You’ll leave with engaging, classroom-ready activities to engage students and enrich your school community.
2:00 PM - 2:30 PM @ Hall C
The Key School Sixth Grade Orff Ensemble consists of sixth grade students who perform throughout the school year. This group has also performed at the AOSA Professional Development Conference in 2006 and 2016.
Session Block (3 events)
2:35 PM
Session Block (8 events)
3:45 PM
3:45 PM - 5:00 PM @ B21C
Andy Himelick
Craig Knapp
Explore integrating Conversational Solfege and Orff Schulwerk to blend music literacy with student-centered creativity through practical activities for upper elementary learners.
3:45 PM - 5:00 PM @ B15ABC
Crystal Pridmore
Discover how to make ukulele playing accessible for all students through open tuning, adaptive techniques, and inclusive strategies. Explore hands-on approaches that foster immediate success, creativity, and social-emotional growth, ensuring every learner can strum, sing, and shine.
3:45 PM - 5:00 PM @ B21A
David Dockan
Explore how DJ controllers and AI can be incorporated into the Orff Schulwerk classroom as a teacher resource and a creative student experience.
3:45 PM - 5:00 PM @ B21B
Drue Bullington
Ideas anyone can take home to their classroom and begin to incorporate in the practice. A gem from the schulwerk will be chosen by the group and then a series of unpredictable events will guide our musical adventure to a delightful culmination!
3:45 PM - 5:00 PM @ E10AB
Melanie Kang
This session explores the vibrant heartbeat of Chinese Hani music through traditional bamboo stick dance and songs. The session will demonstrate how the music and dance elements flourish within an Orff Schulwerk setting. You’ll leave with engaging, classroom-ready activities to engage students and enrich your school community.
3:45 PM - 5:00 PM @ E11ABC
Sarah Alipanah
Using children’s literature, explore ways to spark meaningful conversations that help students navigate big emotions through singing, movement, instruments, and dramatic play.
Session Block (3 events)
8:00 PM
8:00 PM - 9:15 PM @ B21C
Cathy Meyer
Conference is filled with inspiration and fellowship; it’s also a place to find rest, renewal, and rejuvenation. Immerse yourself in the healing vibrations of sound for stress relief and self-care.
8:00 PM - 9:15 PM @ B21A
Elisa Seppänen
A vocal-based session exploring rhythm, presence, and connection through collective music-making. The workshop highlights music as a pathway to shared awareness, well-being, and planetary connection.
Saturday, November 7, 2026
Session Block (7 events)
8:00 AM
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM @ B15ABC
Anna WIles
Join us for an immersive session designed to transform your approach to active listening in the music room! From classical to pop, discover innovative activities to engage students in music exploration.
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM @ E10CD
Daniel Johnson
Explore multi-faceted ways to demonstrate music listening skills. Process music aurally and respond imaginatively using interpretive movement, text, and percussion instruments.
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM @ E10AB
Deb Navin
Using outer space as our guide, let’s explore how to engage and inspire upper elementary learners to create, move, and play even if this is their first Orff Schulwerk experience.
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM @ B21A
Drue Bullington
Explore famous mosaic artworks through movement, rhythm, and melody. Create personalized mosaic cards and collaborate in a dynamic community Rondo that celebrates individuality, connection, and the collective joy of music.
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM @ B21C
LeslieAnn Bird
Kenrick Wagner
Learn to break down Hip-Hop music to its elements and use games, skill-building activities and process teaching to build skill. Experience activities to analyze, create and perform Hip-Hop with young children.
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM @ B21B
Olivia Ramirez
Experience an Orff Schulwerk journey with What Can You Do With a Paleta?—connecting beat, melody, and drama to build a collaborative rondo performance.
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM @ E11ABC
Stacey Petz
Explore how to integrate art, movement, and drama into your lessons with black lights to create performances that GLOW! Experience how black lights enhance lessons while increasing student focus.
Session Block (7 events)
10:15 AM
10:15 AM - 11:30 AM @ E10AB
Deb Navin
Using outer space as our guide, let’s explore how to engage and inspire upper elementary learners to create, move, and play even if this is their first Orff Schulwerk experience.
10:15 AM - 11:30 AM @ B15ABC
Larissa Thomas
Using the artwork of Reginald Laurent as inspiration, create your own shape-based artwork! Explore how your artistic masterpiece comes alive through movement and musical exploration.
10:15 AM - 11:30 AM @ E10CD
Leah Kmetz
Explore Keetmans’ treasures of body percussion from Rhythmische Ubung, while pushing the limits of a “simple composition”. We will dive into these body percussion pieces as a way to explore improvisation and composition.
10:15 AM - 11:30 AM @ B21A
Drue Bullington
Explore famous mosaic artworks through movement, rhythm, and melody. Create personalized mosaic cards and collaborate in a dynamic community Rondo that celebrates individuality, connection, and the collective joy of music.
10:15 AM - 11:30 AM @ E11ABC
Katie Brown
Experience activities based on culturally diverse children’s literature that foster creativity in the music room!
10:15 AM - 11:30 AM @ B21B
Russ Ballenger
Experience a play-filled process centered around Vol. I. pg. 108 #25. Explore how this piece can come to life with drama, movement, body percussion, and improvisation! Cats welcome.
Session Block (6 events)
1:00 PM
1:00 PM - 2:15 PM @ B21A
Aimee Pfitzner
Dive into musical forms! Experience and create elemental form compositions that ignite creativity and challenge students. This hands-on session bursts with movement, play, and possibilities!
1:00 PM - 2:15 PM @ B21B
Meg Tietz
The beginning of the year for our youngest students is an exciting and terrifying time for students and teachers alike. Experience beginning of the year activities for Kindergarteners to establish procedures and routines in the music room through playful, engaging, and curricularly grounded activities.
1:00 PM - 2:15 PM @ B15ABC
Evan Alboum
LAUGH and HAVE FUN exploring silly ways to reinvigorate classical music through movement. Think Chaplin, Bugs, Orff and Dalcroze combined!
1:00 PM - 2:15 PM @ E11ABC
Kate Bright
Explore the Volume 1 ostinato exercises through the lens of the recorder. A recorder ensemble can play these exercises as drones, sound carpets, or simple consorts.
Session Block (5 events)
2:30 PM
2:30 PM - 3:45 PM @ B21B
Meg Tietz
The beginning of the year for our youngest students is an exciting and terrifying time for students and teachers alike. Experience beginning of the year activities for Kindergarteners to establish procedures and routines in the music room through playful, engaging, and curricularly grounded activities.
2:30 PM - 3:45 PM @ B21C
Amy Brown
Discover practical approaches for supporting all learners with interactive music-making and experience the session through the eyes of diverse learners.
2:30 PM - 3:45 PM @ E11ABC
Kate Bright
Explore the Volume 1 ostinato exercises through the lens of the recorder. A recorder ensemble can play these exercises as drones, sound carpets, or simple consorts.
6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Paid event requiring separate registration for $69. No on-site sales available. Table seating opens in October. Come join us as DJ David Dockan spins the hits!
David Dockan, Symposium chairpersonAlliance for Active Music Making
Kimberly Collins
Jason Jones
Mary Evans
Victoria Redfearn Cave
Vivian Murray Caputo
Sue Mueller
Michael Chandler
René Villareal
Heather PhilipsJohn BarnesKeith HudspethRegina La Valley
Ellen Koziel
