Reverberations: Teachers Teaching Teachers is a weekly, online publication available to members that publishes models of best practice from Orff Schulwerk classrooms in the form of lesson ideas, student-tested teaching strategies, articles related to classroom applications, and more.
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List of Reverberations Articles
The Evolving Melody: Starting With a Simple Outline
In this article Scott describes a process of melodic deconstruction that helps students learn music from the Music for Children volumes.
Exploring Modes With Young Learners
This article models ways to adapt modal material in the primary grades. Exploring modal pieces provides excellent preparation for future learning experiences throughout the elementary years.
Sing, Say, Dance, Play…in a Choral Way!
Implement Orff Schulwerk in a variety of ways in a choir classroom with middle school students. The “sing” is already there but now add in “say, dance, and play!”
Beatboxing on the Recorder
Add a new twist to recorder performances while piquing student interest! The “what, why, and how” to get started with suggestions for implementing recorder beatboxing in your classroom. YouTube video links included showing multicultural examples.
The Thirteen Colony Canon
Canon with historical significance both as a text and as a piece from a distinguished AOSA contributor. Text can be used alone or with written layered ostinati.
Brushes: Paint and Play With Music and Movement
Working with play materials and objects can be beneficial in music and movement sessions across all ages and learning styles. Brushes may be an unusual choice but can provide a multitude of experiences for young and old. Goals may focus on perception, concentration, sensory awareness, and social learning as well as listening, moving, becoming acquainted with a new song or piece of music, and creating.
Breathing Life Into the Recorder
Breathing life and musicality into the early stages of recorder playing can be a challenge. Persistence and patience are required to develop the micro-skills necessary to play the instrument well. To achieve success, be sure these skills are broken down into elemental experiences that foster success in an enjoyable and child-friendly way.
Adult Reflections On Memories Of a Childhood Orff Performance
Adults share their childhood memories and reflections of participation in an Orff ensemble. Affirmation of the educational and personal impact Orff teachers have on their students.
Integrating Children’s Literature into the Music Classroom
The author describes his process for integrating children’s literature, including picture books, in the classroom and for a performance. Students created music, movement, and body percussion combine to tell the story.
Strawberries
2 part canon, Finnish melody, article discusses facts about strawberries, and invites cross-curricular connections.
Seeds For Your Classroom
Two canons by Tossi Arron: Stars – 8 part canon in triple meter and May/Spring – 2 part canon in duple meter
Selecting and Adapting Music for Young Learners
The author suggests ways to adapt music singing, instrumental and movement activities for early childhood and primary students.