National Conference

I had the exciting opportunity last week to attend the American Orff-Schulwerk Association's (AOSA) National Conference in Pittsburgh, PA.  The AOSA is an organization dedicated to the Orff-Schulwerk methodology of music teaching.  I use this system, along with several others, when teaching your children.  Since the word "orff" is foreign to so many, here is how Espie Estrella describes it:

"Also known as the Orff Method, Orff Approach or Music for Children; it is a way of introducing and teaching children about music on a level that they can easily comprehend. Musical concepts are learned through singing, chanting, dance, movement, drama and the playing of percussion instruments. Improvisation, composition and a child's natural sense of play are encouraged."

Participation in this conference allowed me to observe several clinicians who have been trained to teach using this method.  I learned so many new things!  I am now armed with many more exciting activities to bring to the classroom at POV.  Here are a few photos of my time there.

I was also so lucky to see several childrens' performing groups.  I saw groups that sang, played instruments, and danced.  It is amazing how much fun we can have while we're learning.