International Journal of Education & the Arts

Citation: Mabini, J. P. (2026). The Kodály method in a public elementary school and a university laboratory school to build musical creativity. International Journal of Education & the Arts, 27(3). http://doi.org/10.26209/ijea27n3

This study explores the development of musical creativity in grade school learners using the Kodály Approach in two contextually distinct learning centers in Tacloban City, Philippines. Musical creativity—defined as the ability to create original and contextually appropriate musical expressions—is essential for a comprehensive music education. The Kodály Approach uses singing, movement, listening, and musical notation, starting with simple folk songs and traditional children’s songs, to foster learning and enhance creativity. This qualitative multiple case study gathers insights from semi-structured interviews with music teachers at a university laboratory school and a peri-urban public elementary school. The study found that, despite challenges such as limited resources and varying student skill levels, music teachers effectively enhanced musical creativity by integrating local folk songs, creating a supportive learning environment, and utilizing continuous assessments.