The Orff philosophy is an internationally recognized approach to teaching music in schools or group classes, fully aligned with Ontario Ministry of Education (2009) Arts Curriculum for music K-8. With the Orff approach teachers learn to foster student musical performance, literacy and creativity through carefully sequenced musical experiences using songs, games, rhythms, poems, dances, and stories from around the world. Participating teachers learn from specialists in recorder playing, vocal techniques, the basics of movement education, playing percussion (Orff) instruments, and the Orff philosophy of music education.
Within the Province of Ontario, the Oscar Peterson School of Music is the exclusive Orff Teacher Education provider, offering summer intensive and evening courses as well as workshops and webinars year-round. All Orff programming at the Oscar Peterson School of Music is led by internationally renowned clinicians.
Four levels of Orff Courses for teachers are offered through the Oscar Peterson School of Music – Intro to Orff, and Levels I, II and III. The first three courses run as 10-day intensives every summer, and Level III Orff is offered every other year. The Intro and Level I courses are often programmed during the school year as evening programs, and/or in partnership with different school boards. Ontario College of Teachers (OCT) members may complete additional components to receive
Additional Qualifications (AQ) in Primary Junior Music with Orff Focus under Regulation 347/02.
Between the months of September and May, teachers are encouraged to register for
Professional Learning Community (Orff PLC), allowing them to stay connected to and engage with a broader community of music teachers.
Note: When registering for RCM Orff courses candidates must complete a registration for Orff with, or without, AQ. Please also read all AQ Information before registering with AQ.
If you have any questions about music teacher training, please contact [email protected].