Orff

Orff Instruments: Teachers' Choice for Classroom and Therapy

What is the origin of the term "Orff"? Have you also encountered the term "Schulwerk" in your experience with playing xylophones and glockenspiels? If you've spent time on westmusic.com, you've likely come across these terms.

The term "Orff" originates from a specific approach to music education developed by Carl Orff in the 1920s. This approach combines music, speech, movement, and drama into music lessons that mimic a child's natural way of playing. When people mention "Orff," they are typically referring to the Orff-Schulwerk approach to music education. This method's core principle is that children can learn music in a manner similar to how they acquire language. Carl Orff believed that, just as children learn their language without formal instruction, they can also learn music through a gentle and child-centered approach.

ORFF INSTRUMENT BRANDS

Buy Sonor Orff Instruments for Teachers and Classrooms

Studio 49 Orff Instruments for Classroom and Therapy

The instruments commonly associated with Orff-Schulwerk instruction include bells, chimes, glockenspiels, metallophones, xylophones, and timpani. Carl Orff believed that percussive rhythm instruments like these are the most natural and fundamental forms of human expression. The music played on Orff instruments is often straightforward and tailored for beginners. In the Orff approach, children are encouraged to sing, clap, dance, and snap their fingers in sync with melodies and rhythms.

The history of the Orff-Schulwerk approach to music education is extensive and diverse and cannot be fully explained in just a few paragraphs. However, you now have a better understanding of its fundamental principles. If you find the Orff approach intriguing as a parent, teacher, or student, you can explore Teton Music's extensive selection of glockenspiels, bell sets, mallets and sticks, xylophones, and accessories.

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