Opus Music Makers

Kodály Musicianship

Beginner singing and musicianship classes (ages 5-8)

Opus Music Maker Classes begin February 13, 2024

Enrollment remains open after start date

Melissa Rooklidge, Instructor

New and continuing students welcome!

Music Makers classes utilize the Kodály methodological approach which is based on the principles of Zoltan Kodály (1882-1967), a Hungarian composer, educator, and philosopher. The vision of the Kodály methodology centers on the musical, intellectual, physical, and spiritual development of children. Kodály-inspired music education focuses on sequential development of musical skills and literacy through a singing-based curriculum. Kodály believed that music was fundamental to the cultural, intellectual and emotional development of everyone. This curriculum is based on singing, listening, reading, writing, ear training, composition and improvisation. Students holistically experience and learn music through solfège (“do, re, mi,” etc.), rhythm syllables, and the teaching fundamentals and psychology of Émile Jaques-Dalcroze (1865-1950) and Heinrich Pestalozzi (1746-1827).

The curriculum consists of a three step sequence of learning: cognitive phrase (prepare), associative phrase (present) and assimilative phase (practice). Through this sequence, students gain musical knowledge, understanding, comprehension, and mastery of the basic building blocks of music fundamentals. This approach is similar to a child learning their native language, by first listening to words, then speaking, learning how to write and read, and finally composing their own thoughts. Students are carefully and naturally guided through these phases with a joyful experience of engaging musical activities. Kodály believed that music literacy is the right of every human being, and anyone is capable of learning it with proper training. We are excited to share in the joy of music with everyone and all students are welcome!

Questions? Please email Music Makers Instructor, Melissa Rooklidge, at opusrooklidge@gmail.com.