Orff Instruments

Orff Instruments

The Orff Approach (also known as the Orff Schulwerk) is a popular method of teaching music to younger children. Developed in the 1920s by German composer Carl Orff and Gunild Keetman The Orff Approach is a combination of music speech and movement through various lessons. Carl Orff saw percussive rhythm as a natural basic form of human expression and the instruments used in his approach reflect that. Orff instruments include xylophones glockenspiels marimbas and metallophones. These instruments contain removable bars that resonate to project a sound when they are hit with mallets. Other instruments in the Orff Approach include various-sized drums (timpani) and recorders. Orff Instruments are lightweight and very easy to play - during songs children who aren't playing instruments are encouraged to dance clap chant sing and snap their fingers along to the rhythm and melody.

Thanks to the many benefits that develop in children through the Orff Approach it's commonly used in special needs facilities and retirement homes. In fact it has been proven that Orff instruments enhance dexterity concentration and coordination in those with intellectual disabilities as well as the agility and memory of elderly individuals. Orff instruments are even used with the hearing impaired because they can feel the vibrations that are generated through the bars. Today's selection of Orff instruments is extensive; brands like Sonor Studio 49 Rhythm Band and Suzuki specialize in a wide variety of Orff instruments. These companies also offer stands cases and replacement parts and even multi-instrument value packages.