Article by by Megan Laurie
Edited by Bethany Elsworth
‘Open your wings and fly, fly!’
began the invitation as we gathered in Olomouc.
When the opportunity to learn from four experienced and energetic Orff practitioners happens to match up with travel plans while on the other side of the world, it’s an easy decision to sign up. It was a delight to meet many from the international Orff music community who joined together for the weekend. We were led, guided, inspired, prompted, challenged and nourished by the musical experience.
Capably organised by Hana Novotná and her beautiful team, around 40 Orff enthusiasts from all around the world gathered to learn in workshop sessions from Lenka Pospíšilová (Czech Republic), Werner Beidinger (Germany), Robyn Stavely (Australia), and Hana Novotná (Czech Republic).
Using the theme, 'Dialogue between the body and the sensory soul', participants experienced two sessions led by each presenter. Thought-provoking and informative neuro-science perspectives were presented alongside and illustrated with music and movement activities by Robyn Stavely. We were kept on our toes counting and working in a wide variety of time signatures and modes, even going for a walk with Christopher Robin. Lenka Pospíšilová led us through folk songs from the Czech Republic and her original compositions, via train, sailboat and time machine. We also met Smetana and Dvorak along the way. Walking on Hana Novotná’s textured surfaces activated our bodies from the feet up - and some were rather uncomfortably spiky! A deep dive into the ocean found us exploring a picture book "Moře slané vody" by Radek Malý (loosely translated to "A Sea of Salt Water") through movement, speech, song and instruments. This was complimented by an original song from Hana. Werner Beidinger also challenged us with plenty of material in five beat meter as we played on our chairs and then made some fascinating sounds on tambours. Meeting Captain John Hinkerby was lots of fun!
Saturday night was an energetic celebration of folk music and dance from the Czech Republic. We were led by a trio of young and talented local musicians on cimbalom, fiddle and bass. Hana, Lenka and the locals had us up dancing in no time at all. An evening of music, fun and laughter connected us together - body and soul.
The 2024 IOSFS Workshops were a special time of dialoguing together through all our senses. We shared languages, music, delicious food, dance and smiles. I look forward to attending another in coming years. I hope you can come along too!
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