I write to you providing an important update from Kodály Australia.
National Council 2020-2022
Recently we held the Annual General Meeting of the association and conducted elections for the National Council 2020-2022 term. I congratulate the elected Council and thank them in advance for their service. I also acknowledge and thank retiring Council members, Ann Carroll and Stefanie Lorimer.
Ann Carroll has made a longstanding contribution to the National Council and left a substantial mark on the Australian Kodály movement. It has been an honour to work alongside Ann. In acknowledging Ann’s work, I encourage you to read her Honorary Life Member citation on our website.
Professional learning events
Kodály Australia and its branches are closely monitoring the advice of the Australian and state governments regarding the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) and responding accordingly. First and foremost, our primary concern is the health and well-being of our members and the broader community. In the past week, upcoming professional learning events around the country, including Australian Kodály Certificate Courses in Perth, Sydney and Melbourne, have been cancelled or postponed. There will likely be further changes to our planned offerings. Members can expect to receive direct communication from branches and the event listing on the national website will be updated accordingly. If an event is cancelled, you can expect a full refund of registration fees, and I ask for your patience as these are processed. While I know people will be disappointed by these changes to events, we intend to offer similar events in the future. If you have any questions or concerns regarding a specific event, please contact the appropriate branch directly.
2020 Kodály Australia Conference
The National Council and Kodály ACT are reviewing the implications of the current situation for the 2020 Kodály Australia Conference scheduled from 28 September to 1 October in Canberra. We will provide you with an update shortly.
2020 National scholarships and awards
I would like to again draw your attention to the national scholarships and awards suite on offer. Applications close on 31 March for the following:
Australian Kodály Scholarship (AKS)
$3000 towards an original resource which will be made available online for free.
Deanna Hoermann Scholarship (DHS)
$3000 towards postgraduate study aboard.
Enid Scott Conference Award (ESCA)
Recognising exemplary voluntary service and providing financial assistance towards conference attendance.
I ask you to continue to promote these awards widely and consider applying.
“The fire must not be extinguished”.
I encourage all members at this time to adopt a hope-filled mindset: “The fire must not be extinguished” (Kodaly, 1925). The current situation presents us with opportunities to develop creative and innovative teaching practices. I am proud to be part of a community that has a history of bringing people together and supporting one another for nearly 50 years. National Council and branches are investigating innovative ways to respond to the current situation so that we can continue to provide you with high-quality learning opportunities, resources and support.
Best wishes
Dr Jason Goopy
President
Kodály Australia
(Kodály Music Education Institute of Australia Incorporated)
www.kodaly.org.au