Zoltán Kodály - method developed by Kodály, his colleagues and his students (not him alond) evolved under his inspiration and educational principles. None of the practices associated with Kodaly originated with him -- Tonic Sol-fa from England, rhythmic symbols from Chevé, hand signals an adaptation of English system of John Curwen, and other solfège techniques from Jacques-Dalcroze.

The Academy in Budapest became a training centre for teachers and the method has been adapted for use in other countries around the world, reflecting the different cultures.

Features

• early age
• singing and ear training precede notation (from concrete to abstract)
• four step process: preparation - awareness - reinforcement - evaluation
• repertoire: folk songs of own people, then of other cultures. Classical music used in advanced classes. Many compositions by Kodály himself.
• melodic and rhythmic elements introduced in a precise orderly sequence
• techniques used: relative solmization (Tonic Sol-fa, moveable doh), use of hand signals, rhythmic duration syllables and notation
• primarily a vocal method, eventually instruments introduced such as xylophones with removable bars, recorder
• much time devoted to development of music reading and writing skills
• teacher training
• Conferences. See Music Conferences.

Publications & Materials

Contact Information

International Kodály Society
Ms Marta Vandulek, Executive Secretary
H-1364 Budapest
P.O.Box 67
Hungary
Phone/fax: (36-1) 343-4503
E-mail: kodalyzm@mail.matav.hu

Organization of American Kodály Educators
OAKE National Office
P.O. Box 9804
Fargo, ND 58106-9804
(701) 235-0366
(701) 241-7051 (FAX)
e-mail: oake@oake.org
http://www.oake.org/

Kodály Society of Canada
Registrar - Marge Littley
411 Powell St.
Victoria, B.C., V8V 2J3
http://cnet.unb.ca/achn/kodaly/

Kodály Music Education Institute of Australia | The British Kodály Academy | Zoltán Kodály Home Page | Liszt-Kodály Society of Spain |

Source: Comeau, Gilles. (1995). Comparing Dalcroze, Orff and Kodaly: Choosing Your Approach to Teaching Music. Vanier, ON: Centre Franco-Ontarien de Ressources Pédagogiques. (available in French)

Updated March 22, 2000