TEACHING METHODOLOGY

The Kodály approach is a universal system of music education adapted to students of all ages and stages. Kodály-trained teachers follow a sequential approach and choose appropriate repertoire to facilitate the progression from the simple to the more complex.

Methodology courses offer training for teachers wanting to learn how to use the Kodály approach in their music teaching practice. The BKA runs methodology weekend courses through the year, and all branches of methodology are available at the annual BKA Summer School.

Metholodogy courses, led by experienced practitioners, are practical workshops offering a wealth of teaching techniques and well-chosen repertoire, as well as comprehensive handouts and follow-up advice.

The following Methodology specialisations are available:

EARLY CHILDHOOD WORKSHOPS

Suitable for:

• nursery teachers working in Early Years settings
• generalist and specialist class music teachers in Early Years settings
• parents wishing to facilitate their child’s musical development
• instrumental teachers running pre-school and pre-instrumental music classes

KEYSTAGE 1 AND 2 WORKSHOPS

Suitable for:

• generalist and specialist class music teachers in Primary schools
• instrumental teachers working with Primary age children
• teachers running small group practical musicianship training

SPECIAL NEEDS WORKSHOPS

Courses focusing on repertoire to develop music skills, speech, language and communication, and to motivate movement.

Suitable for:

• people working with children with moderate to severe learning difficulties or physical impairment
• parents of such children
• teachers working with children at the Early Years stage (repertoire and techniques are similar)

INSTRUMENTAL TEACHING

The Kodály approach is not an instrumental teaching method, but many instrumental teachers in the UK are becoming interested in underpinning their practice with Kodály musicianship. They want to learn how to follow a sequential approach in their instrumental teaching, and to find repertoire suitable for their instrument which they can use in this process. They recognise pre-school and pre-instrumental music training as an important foundation for instrumental tuition, and the value of their pupils learning music through singing and solfa study, before playing it on their instrument.

Instrumental teachers wishing to adopt a Kodály approach in their practice can benefit from following training in Kodály methodology appropriate to the age-group they are working with. This helps them to understand how to structure a Kodály progression, and how to choose repertoire appropriate for their teaching.

Instrumental teaching methodology is available at the annual BKA Summer School and occasional weekend workshops.

Further information about Methodology Courses from bkahelp@aol.com