OAKE
Organization of American Kodály Educators
Inspired by the vision of Zoltán Kodály, the mission of the Organization of American Kodály Educators is to support music education of the highest quality, promote universal music literacy and lifelong music making, and preserve the musical heritage of the people of the United States of America through education, artistic performance, advocacy and research.
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Skip Navigation LinksHome » About Us » Kodály Methods

The Methods of Teaching

  • Any methodology is derived from a thorough understanding of the concept.
  • The use of musical tools and activities strengthens and enhances the learner's ability to grasp the concept.
  • Many of these tools have become well-known and, in some cases, have become synonymous with the Kodály Concept. However:
    • They are only aids for teaching
    • They should enhance, not detract from our main goals:
      • To instill the love of music in every student
      • To enable every learner to become musically literate
  • Methodology must be developed to suit the age of the child:
    • Flexibility at all times in the teaching process
  • Flexibility in the teaching/learning process and creative use of musical materials and activities are vital for success.
  • Some of the common tools and aids in teaching are
    • Hand signs
    • Rhythm solmization
    • Flash cards
    • Echos
    • Body signs
    • Picture symbols
    • Musical ladders
    • Musical shorthand or stick notation

The Organization of American Kodály Educators

OAKE was founded in 1975 to serve as a meeting place for music educators who embrace the Kodály Concept of Music Education. It draws its membership from educators of all levels, public and private, students, administrators, and others who share in its support and promotion.

OAKE:

  • Publishes the Kodály Envoy four times annually
  • Holds a national conference each year
  • Sponsors the National Conference Choir (at national conference)
  • Has many affiliated chapters throughout the country, which hold meetings, sponsor workshops and activities on the local and regional levels
  • Awards grants to local chapters for special projects
  • Has various resource publications available to members and the general public
  • Offers a free video library to its members
  • Advocates for excellence in music education