R9 Eastern England

Region 9’s latest event was an inspiring Kodály session on 13 March at Newhall School, Boreham in Essex.  The workshop, led by Kodály tutor Len Tyler, was well attended once everyone had found the venue!  Following Len’s introduction on the principles and theory of the Kodály method, we were all invited to “come and make a circle”, which must now be embedded in all our minds having heard these words sung so many times during the day.  Led by Len, we joined hands and followed him around the room, singing the traditional Cornish song “Snail, Snail”, as we formed a “snail”, sang and performed actions as a group and then in smaller groups to an international Welcome Song, and sang rounds.  Len introduced us to a variety of songs using a minimal range of notes which are simple for pre-school children to sing.  Whether we could sing or not, everyone was engaged in singing, tapping out fast and slow beats, clapping with a partner, changing partners or moving around the room in line like trains, chanting the rhyme “Engine Engine”.  We were shown how children learn tempo by tapping to a song, or clapping to the sound of a word with the aid of props.  We played games involving song or rhyme which promote confidence, listening skills, musical memory, inner hearing, concentration and timing.  As a grand finale we were split into 6 groups and sang “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star” as a round which sounded magical. 

During the lunch break we were given a tour of the school and beautiful grounds and learnt a little of its history.  Members were also provided with a pack to pass on to interested parents.

The Kodály system fits in very well with Montessori principles, working from simple to complex, learning through experience in a sequential manner.  We were provided with handouts and access to Len’s website which offers some free downloads which I am sure everyone will find useful.  This was a thoroughly enjoyable and rewarding seminar offering a multitude of ideas to use with young children.  Highly recommended!

(Report by Debbie Palmer, Proprietor, The Village Montessori Nursery, Theydon Bois, R9)

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