April 2004

Kodaly National Conference

I just came back from a stimulating 3-day conference sponsored by the National Kodaly Association. I attended many sessions such as: The Evolution of African American Music; Singing by the Nile: Kodaly & Instrumental Applications; Children’s Folk Songs & Singing Games from Egypt & the Middle East; Kodaly in Junior High; Philippine Folk Songs; From Pentatony to Atonality: Making Complex Music Accessible; Chinese Children’s Songs & Singing Games; Modes Demystified; Nurturing Emotional Intelligence in Early Childhood Through Arts Education and MORE!!!

One of the highlights of the convention was observing Elena Sharkova working with the Children’s Honor Choir of 4th and 5th graders. Elena is the Director of Choral Activities at San Jose State. She started a children’s choir in St. Petersburg, Russia, and is a most inspiring conductor to watch. The singers love working with her and for her. She uses body movement, visual imagery, and good humor to get her wonderful results.

It was a stimulating and energized experience!

—Signe