The Humanitarian Musician

Join internationally renowned Orff practitioner Doug Goodkin for an inspiring day of music-making, reflection and practical exploration.

In The Humanitarian Musician, Doug invites educators to reconnect with the deeper purpose of music education. Through singing, movement, speech, improvisation and ensemble music-making, participants will explore how music can foster creativity, empathy, collaboration and joyful learning.

Drawing on more than forty years of international teaching experience, Doug combines thought-provoking discussion with engaging, hands-on activities that can be adapted for learners of all ages. This workshop offers fresh inspiration for classroom teachers, music specialists and anyone interested in the transformative power of music.

Whether you are new to Orff Schulwerk or an experienced practitioner, you will leave refreshed, creatively energised and equipped with practical ideas to enrich your teaching.

Available Course Files

Click here to download file >

Doug Goodkin is a renowned Orff Schulwerk educator, author, and musician with over four decades of experience in music education. He is particularly known for his innovative application of Orff Schulwerk to the teaching of jazz and multi-cultural music and his ideas connecting Orff Schulwerk to the greater world of education, culture and human potential.

A passionate advocate for child-centered, playful, and multicultural music learning, he has traveled worldwide, training teachers in the Orff approach. His work blends music, movement, and storytelling to create dynamic, engaging learning experiences for all ages. Doug has authored several influential books on music education and is known for his ability to connect deep musical understanding with joyful, hands-on learning. His teachings emphasise inclusivity, creativity, and the power of music to build community.

Doug Goodkin has authored several influential books on Orff Schulwerk and music education, including Play, Sing, & Dance: An Introduction to Orff Schulwerk, A Rhyme in Time: Rhythm, Speech Activities, and Improvisation for the Classroom, Now’s the Time: Teaching Jazz to All Ages, Intery Mintery: Nursery Rhymes for Body, Voice, and Orff Ensemble, Teach Like It’s Music: An Artful Approach to Education, and We’ll Be in Your Mountains, We’ll Be in Your Songs: A Guide for Orff Teachers and Music Educators. His books offer practical, engaging activities that integrate movement, rhythm, improvisation, and cultural traditions, making them essential resources for music educators worldwide.