The Kodály Concept

Essential and Key Elements of the Concept

Singing

• We should first learn to love music as human sound and as an experience that enriches life.
• The voice is the most natural instrument and one which every person possesses.
• Kodály called singing "the essence" of this concept.
• Singing is a powerful means of musical expression.
• What we produce by ourselves is better learned; and there is a stronger feeling of success and accomplishment.
• Learning through singing should precede instrumental training.
• It is in the child's best interest to understand the basics of reading music before beginning the difficult task of learning the technique of an instrument.
• What do we sing?
  • Folk songs and games of the American Culture
  • Traditional children's songs and games
  • Folk songs of other cultures
  • Music of the masters from all ages
  • Pedagogical exercises written by master composers
• Singing best develops the inner, musical ear.

Folk Music

• Folk music is the music of the people. There can be no better material for singing than the songs and games used by children for centuries.
• Folk Music has all the basic characteristics needed to teach the foundations of music and to develop a love of music - a love that will last a life time.
• Folk music is the classical music of the people, and, as such, is a perfect bridge leading to and working hand-in-hand with-art music.

Solfège

• Solfège is the best tool for developing the inner ear.
• It is an invaluable aid in building all musical skills:
  • Sight singing
  • Dictation
  • Ear training
  • Part hearing
  • Hearing and singing harmony
  • Perceiving form
  • Developing memory
• The moveable do system, highly developed in English choral training, was advocated by Kodály as a tool for teaching musical literacy.
• Use of the pentatone (do, re, me, sol, la) was recommended by Kodály for early training of children because of its predominance in their folk music.

Music and Quality

• We believe that music enhances the quality of life. So that it may have the impact it deserves, only the best music should be used for teaching:
  • Folk music, which is the most representative of the culture
  • The best music composed by the masters
• Quality music demands quality teaching:
  • Teachers need to be as well-trained as possible
  • Teachers' training must be well-rounded
  • Teachers need to develop their musical and vocal skills to the highest degree possible

Development of the Complete Musician

• Kodály training is a complete and comprehensive approach to music education which meets the National Standards for Arts Education as published by MENC, © 1994.
• The development of all skill areas begins very early with simple tasks required of all the students. As knowledge grows, skills are developed further in a sequential manner.
• In addition to music reading and writing which are begun at an early stage, the following skill areas are also developed: part-singing, part-hearing, improvisation, intonation, listening, memory, phrasing and understanding of form.
• An awareness and knowledge of musical styles develops as skills become more proficient.

Sequencing

• Presentation of materials, concepts, and development of skills can be done in a meaningful way only if the curriculum is well sequenced.
• A carefully planned sequence, well taught, will result in successful experiences for children and teacher. Success breeds success - and fosters a love of music.
• A Kodály sequenced curriculum is an experience-based approach to learning rather than a cognitive developmental approach.