How to become a Certified Orff-Schulwerk Specialist Teacher

Teacher training in Orff Schulwerk is available at universities and conservatories across Canada.

What is Orff-Schulwerk?

Orff-Schulwerk is also known as the Orff Method, Orff Approach or Music for Children and it is an internationally recognized program for teaching music in schools or group classes.  It introduces and teaches children about music in a fun way that is easy for children to understand. Musical concepts are learned through singing, chanting, dancing, improvisation, drama and the playing of percussion instruments, such as xylophones and glockenspiels.

This approach to music education was developed in the 1920’s by Carl Orff, a German composer and educator whose most famous composition is the oratorio “Carmina Burana.”  Orff was the music director of the Günther-Schule, a school of music and dance in Munich. He believed that rhythm and movement were important for a child’s music education and he wrote his method in a book titled Orff-Schulwerk, which was later, adapted into English as Music for Children.

Is this career right for me?

If you are a teacher, enjoy working with children and you like music and creative dance, then this career might be suitable for you.  Although not necessary, previous musical skills or ability to play a musical instrument would be an asset.

Where can I Study?

Teacher training in Orff Schulwerk is available at universities and conservatories across Canada such as

• University of Alberta
• Vancouver Community College
• University of Manitoba
• York University
• Royal Conservatory of Music (Toronto)
• L’Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM)

These courses range from Introductory through the Master’s Level, and lead to certification, which is recognized internationally.

Where are the jobs?

The Orff Method is taught in public elementary schools as well as private schools.  It is also taught in music conservatories.