THE KODÁLY CONCEPT

In a lesson using the Kodály method, which is an experience-based approach rather than a cognitive developmental one, students are learning to read and write western music notation, singing a varied repertoire of quality children’s folksongs and chants, playing singing games, and practicing rhythm and pitch using the movable-do solfege system (Do Re Mi Fa Sol La Ti Do) and a special rhythmic language (Ta, ti-ti, Ti-ri-ti-ri). In addition to these musical elements, part-singing, part-hearing, improvisation, intonation, listening, memory, phrasing, and form are also explored in many ways. Emphasis is placed on the sequence of presentation of materials, concepts, and development of skills through meaningful curriculum. The three main stages of a lesson sequence include preparation, presentation, and practice.

Solfege is one of the main tools of Kodály for developing the inner ear. It is an invaluable aid in building musical skills for sight singing, dictation, ear training, harmony, and developing me memory. We use movable do and mainly focus on the pentatone (do, re, mi, sol, la) in the early years.

Visit the Organization of American Kodály Educators website for more information at http://www.oake.org.