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The Kodály Approach

Understand what makes this approach to music education different

What is the Kodály approach?

  • a philosophy of music education.

  • a comprehensive program to train basic musical skills and teach the reading and writing of music.

  • an integration of many of the best ideas, techniques, and approaches to music education.

  • an experience-based approach to teaching.

Zoltán Kodály

1882-1967
Hungarian composer, ethnomusicologist,
music pedagogue, linguist, and philosopher. 

Kodály developed a philosophy for music education which has spread far and wide since its conception in the mid-20th century.  The philosophy was birthed due to Kodály’s deep concern for the low level of musical ability and cultural heritage in young people of his day. He believed that music should be taught in all schools, based on the following philosophy:

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  • Music belongs to everyone.

  • Music should be taught in such a way that it is a JOYFUL process.

  • Music education should centre around singing since it is the most natural instrument, available to everyone, and the best way to develop inner hearing (the ability to think in music).

  • Musical exposure and training should begin 9 months before birth.

  • Music literacy is the right of every person.

  • The folk music of a child’s mother tongue is the best material to teach the skills and concepts needed for musical literacy. Later folk music from other cultures also provides excellent teaching material. Folk music provides a bridge for the study of art music.

  • Only music of the highest quality should be used in music education.

  • Music is necessary for the development of the total person.

  • Music teachers should themselves be the best musicians and educators possible.

The Kodály concept

“Zoltán Kodály’s philosophy of music education inspired the development of the Kodály method or the Kodály concept of music education. The Kodály method was actually developed by his students and colleagues. Simply stated, the method is a comprehensive approach to teaching music skills. The composer stressed the need for all music teachers to be excellent musicians and conductors, and to have a knowledge of music repertoire to successfully develop a music program. This section identifies the essential hallmarks of the Kodály method as shaped by Kodály’s philosophy of music education.”

(Kodály in the third-grade classroom: developing the creative brain in the 21st century – Tacka & Houlahan, 2015, p. 1)

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Key Elements of the Approach

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

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.

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; and developing memory.

  • The moveable do system, highly developed in English choral training, was advocated by Kodály as a tool for teaching musical literacy.

  • The use of the pentatonic scales (do, re, mi, sol, la) was recommended for the early training of children.

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.

  • 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 develop 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 teachers. 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.

Become a Kodály Teacher

Kodály training is comprehensive and life-changing. 

The KSSA offer various courses, workshops and online training sessions. 

KSSA members have access to past training sessions and tutorials by Kodály experts. 

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