Thank You, Michael Chandler!
IMITATE ➔ EXPLORE ➔ IMPROVISE
Imitation, exploration, and improvisation lead music and movement activities in the Orff Schulwerk classroom through the Orff media: Singing, Saying, Dancing, and Playing. This timeless approach is even more relevant today in an educational world where school administrators are looking for project-‐based learning, active engagement, and learner-‐centered instruction – things Orff teachers have been doing joyfully for many years! Throughout these sessions, participants will explore ways to encourage student creativity and improvisation in the elementary music classroom using the processes and media of Orff Schulwerk while including literacy skills at appropriate expectations across different grade levels. Experience how to use materials to plan performances for parents and administrators that advocate your music program and maximize instructional time. Learn how to also integrate the soprano recorder into lessons in ways that don’t place other skills and concepts on hold. Sing, say, dance, and play your way to effective lesson design that empowers and motivates students.
Michael Chandler lives in Dallas and is the K-5 music specialist at Valley Ridge Elementary in Lewisville, Texas where he was named “Teacher of the Year” in 2011. At Valley Ridge Elementary, Michael directs the Valley Ridge Singers and the 5th Grade Orff Schulwerk ensemble, Jagspiel. Michael has taught in AOSA-approved Orff Schulwerk certification courses in four states. In 2005, 2007, and 2013 his students performed as featured elementary ensembles at the Texas Music Educators Association Convention in San Antonio. He has served as president of the North Texas Chapter of AOSA and as a Regional Representative on the AOSA National Board of Trustees. Michael presents workshops and sessions at the local, state, and national level including sessions at AOSA, TMEA, and the Texas Choral Directors Association (TCDA). He is an accompanist for the Children’s Chorus of Greater Dallas, the pianist at Round Grove United Church (UCC) in Lewisville, Texas and is an active accompanist for solo/ensemble contests and choral festival.
Michael Chandler lives in Dallas and is the K-5 music specialist at Valley Ridge Elementary in Lewisville, Texas where he was named “Teacher of the Year” in 2011. At Valley Ridge Elementary, Michael directs the Valley Ridge Singers and the 5th Grade Orff Schulwerk ensemble, Jagspiel. Michael has taught in AOSA-approved Orff Schulwerk certification courses in four states. In 2005, 2007, and 2013 his students performed as featured elementary ensembles at the Texas Music Educators Association Convention in San Antonio. He has served as president of the North Texas Chapter of AOSA and as a Regional Representative on the AOSA National Board of Trustees. Michael presents workshops and sessions at the local, state, and national level including sessions at AOSA, TMEA, and the Texas Choral Directors Association (TCDA). He is an accompanist for the Children’s Chorus of Greater Dallas, the pianist at Round Grove United Church (UCC) in Lewisville, Texas and is an active accompanist for solo/ensemble contests and choral festival.