Integrating Orff and Kodály into an Elementary Music Curriculum

When We Start Out...

When I first stepped into the world of elementary music 30 years ago, I was completely green, with just one methods class under my belt. Back then, the typical path for music ed majors was choir, orchestra, or band—and I was firmly on the band track. But little did I know that my journey would take me into the heart of elementary general music, sparking a passion that would shape my entire career. Along the way, I earned my Master of Science in Music Education, deepening my knowledge and fueling my dedication to the art of teaching music.

Starting out as a novice music teacher, I was thrust into 12 different preschools and elementary schools, teaching a piano program with no keyboards. It was an adventure—and a crash course in making the most of limited resources! Over the years, I discovered the transformative power of approaches like Orff, Kodály, and Dr. Feierabend’s methods, and began integrating technology to enhance music creation for every student. I also dove deep into Mind Brain Education, Design Thinking, and more.

How Do I Mix It All Together?

The question that so many music teachers face: how do I bring all these techniques and tools together to support my students? Should I choose one approach or combine them? Should I stick to a curriculum, or integrate others?

The answer is simpler than it seems: Do what works best for you and your students. Whether that means blending Orff with Kodály, adding tech tools to a set curriculum, or taking the best of both worlds, the key is flexibility. What matters most is creating an environment where your students can explore, create, and thrive as young musicians.

Your Pedagogy, Our Curriculum: Integrating Orff and Kodály with MusicFirst Elementary

If you're wondering how to bring it all together in your own classroom, join me and Eric Young on Wednesday, October 15, at 8 p.m. EDT for a special webinar. You’ll walk away with actionable ideas, a ready-to-use lesson, and a free trial of MusicFirst Elementary—a complete K-5 music curriculum packed with resources and tools that empower both you and your students.

Register Here!

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Unlock MusicFirst Secrets: Free Virtual Training

🎶 Attention music educators! 🎶

✨ Looking to elevate your classroom? Join me for a FREE live virtual training on September 24th at 8 p.m. EDT! ✨

🚀 Whether you're a newbie or a pro, this 60-minute session will walk you through how to supercharge your lessons with MusicFirst Elementary.

What you’ll learn:
1️⃣ Plan lessons with confidence
2️⃣ Engage students with music & movement
3️⃣ Get your students creating their own music 🎶
4️⃣ Try hands-on activities (Boomwhackers, anyone?)

5️⃣ Classroom Management Strategies

🎓 Plus, get expert tips for maximizing the program in your classroom, no matter your grade level or instruments!

👩‍🏫 Seats are limited, so don’t wait! Click the link to register! 🔗

See you on the 24th at 8 p.m. EDT! 🎉

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Free Live Virtual Training: Getting Started with MusicFirst Elementary!

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Join me at a free live, virtual training this month!

Are you looking to elevate your music classroom and create engaging, hands-on lessons for your students? Whether you’re a new music teacher, a seasoned pro, or still exploring your options, we’ve got something for you!

Join us for a free live virtual training on September 24th at 8 p.m. EDT, where we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to get started with MusicFirst Elementary. I would love to see you there!

Why Should You Attend?

In this 60-minute session, you’ll get a firsthand look at how MusicFirst Elementary can support you in crafting meaningful and enjoyable musical experiences for your students—from day one.

Dr. Mary Birkner and I will lead this session, demonstrating real-life applications of MusicFirst Elementary and showing you how to maximize its potential in your classroom.

What You'll Learn:

1. Start with Confidence
We’ll guide you through a clear, step-by-step process for planning your lessons, starting from a warm-up all the way through to a full, engaging class. Feel confident and organized every time you step in front of your students!

2. Make it Musical
Want your students to feel the music, not just play it? We’ll demonstrate how to lead a movement activity using a song, fostering deeper engagement and musical understanding.

3. Turn Students into Creators
Discover how our Creative Tools, such as the Rhythm Grids, empower students to decode the rhythmic elements of a song and create their own musical compositions. It’s the perfect way to encourage creativity while reinforcing key musical concepts.

4. Go Hands-On
Learn how to integrate fun activities like Boomwhacker exercises to help students practice steady beat and rhythm in a hands-on way. You’ll leave with practical tips you can use in class the very next day.

5. Answer Questions
We’ll show you how to adapt the program based on your grade level, available instruments, and class time—making it easier for you to deliver personalized, engaging music instruction.

Who Should Attend?

This training is for everyone:

• If you’re already using MusicFirst Elementary, this is the perfect chance to dive deeper into its features and get expert tips on making the most of the curriculum.

• If you're exploring a free trial, this is a great way to see how the platform works before making a decision.

• If you're just curious about how MusicFirst Elementary can support your teaching, we’ll give you a complete walkthrough to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your classroom.

Secure Your Spot Today!
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enhance your teaching and boost student engagement. Click below to register now and save your spot for this exciting, interactive session!

Register Now for Free Training!

See you on September 24th at 8 p.m. EDT!