Which of the following is NOT a focus of the Orff-Schulwerk method?

The Orff-Schulwerk method emphasizes a holistic approach to music education that integrates various elements of music-making, such as vocal improvisation, movement, and instrument playing. It encourages children's natural inclination to learn through play and creativity.

While initial focus on instrument playing is a critical aspect of the method, it is not the singular emphasis. Instead, the approach begins with an experiential process that combines singing, dancing, and playing instruments, allowing students to explore and create music in a fundamentally interconnected way. This foundational aspect promotes a more comprehensive understanding of music, where instrument playing is one of many avenues through which children engage with musical concepts.

Thus, while instrument playing is important, it is the integration of improvisation, notation reading, and movement that truly encapsulates the essence of the Orff-Schulwerk method, making it distinctive. The other options directly relate to the method’s core philosophy, reinforcing the idea that music education is most effective when it embraces multiple facets of musical expression.