Creative Connections In Kodály And Orff

The Kodály and Orff approaches both offer numerous complimentary pedagogical techniques that can be effectively used to help children develop their musical creativity in the elementary general music classroom. In this session, we will explore ways to unify the Kodály and Orff pedagogies to enhance children’s creative development through movement, improvisation, and composition. Teachers can expect to engage in participatory learning experiences that will provide them with techniques and materials that can be readily transferred to their individual classrooms. Special attention will be paid to activities that promote student-centered learning practices.

Dr. Megan Sheridan 

Univ of Florida
Assistant Professor of Music Education

Megan M. Sheridan is an assistant professor of music education at the University of Florida, where she teaches courses in undergraduate and graduate music education. Dr. Sheridan has taught elementary general music in public and private schools in Pennsylvania and Maryland. She received her PhD in music from The Ohio State University, her MA in music and music education from Teachers College Columbia University, and her BM in music education from Westminster Choir College. Dr. Sheridan is Kodály certified and has completed Orff Level II training. Her research interests include pedagogical practices in general music, music for children with special needs, culturally responsive pedagogy, and qualitative research methods. She has presented her research and has given workshops at schools and conferences both nationally and internationally.

The FMEA Professional Development Conference and All-State Ensembles receive support in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Arts and Culture, and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture.