Class Act Handbook 2012-2013 - Pacific Symphony

Set Up Details, Preparation, and Implementation
Orff Lessons
Generally the Parent Coordinator, assisted by the Ambassador (if applicable) will
prepare and implement each day of Orff lessons. We strongly recommend that the
Parent Coordinator or Teacher Representative send out a reminder to those teachers
attending on a given day, and that the Principal and Teacher Representatives ensure
that classroom teachers properly prepare their students for their lesson. Orff lessons
are highly interactive, so a space that is clear of chairs and tables and allows 20-30
students to move freely and comfortably is essential.
The objective of Orff lessons is to teach students in grades K-3 basic music
skills through singing, dancing, and playing basic rhythm instruments.
Appropriate set-up and parent and teacher support is essential for successful
lessons. Students learn more and are more engaged when parents and teachers
model good participatory behavior.
In advance of each lesson day
‣ Verify the dates and times of lessons using the Class Act Website
‣ Verify the specific class that will attend each lesson
‣ Send out a reminder to those attending on a given day, specifying time and
length of each lesson
Verify that an appropriate space is available for all lessons, including set-up
time. Orff lesson facility requirements are as follows: An empty classroom or
multipurpose room. Room for 30 students to move around comfortably, power
outlets, and a minimum of outside distractions are also required.
‣ Principal or Teacher Representative verify that classroom teachers have
properly prepared their students for the lesson
o As Orff lessons are a supplement to regular Class Act lessons,
preparation for these lessons is quite simple. Classroom teachers should
ensure that their students are in the appropriate “head space” for the
lesson. Lessons are highly participatory, so students should be briefed
on the fact that they are going to spend more time with the Pacific
Symphony learning about music and getting to be musicians themselves.
They should show their good manners, but also be ready to have fun and
participate
On the lesson day
‣ Reserve a parking spot for the musician and Ambassador (if applicable)
‣ Notify team members about parking restrictions (i.e. street sweeping days and
other issues that could result in a parking ticket)
‣ Go over opening and closing remarks (see script on next page)
‣ Meet the musician in the parking lot to help him/her carry in his/her supplies
and instrument, sign in at the office (if needed), and locate the lesson space
‣ Go through the set-up check list (below, and ask your Regional Manager for
any clarifications. She will be happy to help!)
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