AOSA stands for the American Orff-Schulwerk Association. It is an organization dedicated to the promotion and development of the Orff-Schulwerk approach to music education. The Orff-Schulwerk approach was developed by German composer Carl Orff and his colleague Gunild Keetman in the 1920s.
The Orff-Schulwerk approach is a holistic approach to music education that focuses on the development of the whole child through the integration of music, movement, and speech. It is based on the belief that music is a natural and fundamental aspect of human life, and that every child has the innate ability to participate in and enjoy music.
The American Orff-Schulwerk Association was founded in 1968 and has since grown to become one of the largest and most influential music education organizations in the United States. It provides resources, training, and support for music educators who use the Orff-Schulwerk approach in their classrooms.
The Orff-Schulwerk approach is characterized by its emphasis on active, experiential learning. Students are encouraged to explore and create music through improvisation, composition, and ensemble work. The approach also integrates movement and dance, as well as the use of instruments such as the xylophone, metallophone, and glockenspiel.
One of the key principles of the Orff-Schulwerk approach is the belief in the importance of play and creativity in music education. Students are encouraged to approach music as a form of play, and to use their imaginations and creativity to express themselves through music.
The American Orff-Schulwerk Association offers a wide range of resources and training opportunities for music educators. It organizes national and regional conferences, workshops, and seminars where educators can learn new techniques and share ideas with their peers. The association also publishes a variety of books, journals, and other resources that provide guidance and support for educators using the Orff-Schulwerk approach.
By promoting the Orff-Schulwerk approach, the American Orff-Schulwerk Association is helping to shape the future of music education in the United States. Its dedication to fostering creativity, imagination, and joy in the learning of music is making a positive impact on the lives of countless students and educators.
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