The Orff Echo Editorial Board is soliciting articles for the Summer 2016 issue. Our feature topic is “Group Creativity and the Schulwerk.” We invite various types of submissions such as (1) philosophical and theoretical work reflecting the benefits of small- or large-group creative music making; (2) Orff pedagogical techniques for integrating group activity; (3) empirical research related to the Schulwerk and group creativity.

A central component to the Orff Schulwerk is creative music making in groups, whether through singing, moving, or playing instruments. We encourage writers to consider the following questions as they relate to facilitating effective group activity that encourages student idea exchange and musical crafting:

  1. Why is group creative music making fundamental to the Orff Schulwerk approach?
  2. What Orff Schulwerk instructional activities encourage group creativity and critical or divergent thinking?
  3. In what ways does group creativity enhance or support individual musical creativity?
  4. How might group creativity enhance both musical and extra-musical learning (e.g., socio-emotional, cultural, etc.)?
  5. What are some ways teachers can facilitate group musical creativity that honors students’ cultural and/or sociocultural backgrounds?
  6. What does research tell us about group creativity in the Orff Schulwerk classroom?

The Orff Echo Editorial Board is always interested in original research and informative articles covering all aspects of Orff Schulwerk and music education such as movement, play, singing, assessment, and curricular planning. Our format allows for submissions dedicated to your area of interest in addition to our featured topic.

Please contact Chet-Yeng Loong (, Donna Gallo (, or Nicola Mason ( with submissions or questions regarding the Summer 2016 issue, “Group Creativity and the Schulwerk.” For submission guidelines or for general questions about The Orff Echo, send inquiries to Laurie Sain (

Deadline for submissions is November 15, 2015.

While issues of the Echo publish special features of 3-4 articles, any subject can be published in any issue.  Have an idea? Contact a coordinator today!