This interactive workshop is designed for educators teaching classroom ensembles or instrumental music lessons who seek greater rigour in their teaching practice, whilst embedding a deep-seated understanding of musicianship and music literacy in their students.

During the workshop participants will explore practical strategies for integrating Kodály-based pedagogy within a classroom ensemble setting, with a particular focus on making singing an integral part of school culture and a symbiotic component of instrumental teaching through the use of solfa and rhythm names. We’ll discuss how to align the Kodaly principle of “sound before symbol” with the practical demands of music reading in a classroom ensemble context, and how to teach both effectively for maximum student success. We’ll look at games and activities suited to ensemble settings, adaptable for groups of varying sizes, and discuss approaches to balancing the diverse skill levels commonly found among instrumental students.

Emphasis will be placed on the prepare and practice stages of the Kodály pedagogy. Participants will form a workshop vocal ensemble to practise these skills in real time.