The Kodály Method: Valid or Missing the Mark for Developing a Musicking Musician?

In the ever-evolving world of music education, a handful of “methods” have been identified as favorites, mainly Orff, Suzuki, Dalcroze, and Kodály. These are used in whole or in part in classroom and private music instruction, based on an expected understanding that they produce results. However, these methods are often used without regard for the quality of their delivery, and are relied upon without consideration for the context in which they are delivered. Many music educators are speaking up and analyzing their own teaching, conducting studies, and bettering their understanding of the principles behind these methods. It is from this body of knowledge that the relevance and efficacy of the Kodály method (for that is the method of focus here) can be better understood, and therefore appreciated for better application in teaching contexts