Suncoast Florida Orff Chapter

SFOC Objectives

To recognize the diverse contributions of individuals and institutions advancing the Orff Schulwerk approach,
while demonstrating its growth, vitality, and relevance to excellence in American education.
To disseminate relevant news and ideas regarding Schulwerk philosophies and activities.
To renew inspiration and vision for persons who are presently using Orff's educational principles.
To offer enthusiasm and impetus to persons newly embarked on Schulwerk philosophies and techniques.

Welcome to the Suncoast Florida Orff Chapter

We are a vibrant community of music educators dedicated to inspiring creativity, collaboration, and joyful music-making through Orff Schulwerk.

Whether you're new to Orff or a seasoned educator, we invite you to connect, learn, and grow with us through workshops, professional development, and a shared passion for music education.

Upcoming Presenter: Matthew Stensrud

August 22nd, 2026 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Perkins Elementary

2205 18th Ave S, St Petersburg, FL 33712

The Suncoast Florida Orff Chapter is excited to welcome Matthew Stensrud as our featured presenter for our first workshop of the 2026-2027 season.

Matthew Stensrud is an award-winning Elementary Music and Movement Teacher at Sidwell Friends Lower School in Washington, DC, where he teaches PK-4 music and movement. An Orff Schulwerk-approved Teacher Educator of Movement, Matthew is widely recognized for his engaging, joyful approach to music and movement education and regularly teaches Movement Levels throughout the United States.

Matthew currently serves as President-Elect of the American Orff Schulwerk Association (AOSA) and has previously served on AOSA's National Board of Trustees as Trustee for Region V. He has also contributed to The Orff Echo and was a key contributor to the book Responsive Classroom for Music, Art, PE and Other Special Areas. Many educators know him through his popular social media presence, @MisterSOrff, where he shares creative ideas and inspiration for music educators.

Join Matthew for "Effortless Play: Using the Schulwerk to Enhance Creativity," an interactive workshop that explores the power of playfulness, discovery, improvisation, and student-led learning. Together, participants will revisit the roots of the Schulwerk and discover practical strategies for fostering creativity, risk-taking, and joyful music-making in today's classrooms.

We look forward to welcoming Matthew to Suncoast and hope you'll join us for this inspiring learning experience!

The Suncoast Florida Orff Chapter is excited to begin the 2026–2027 season with our first workshop of the year, featuring nationally recognized music educator Matthew Stensrud @mistersorff ✨ Workshop: Effortless Play: Using the Schulwerk to Enhance Creativity Presenter: Matthew Stensrud Date: Saturday, August 22 Time: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Location: Perkins Elementary School, St. Petersburg, FL This interactive workshop will explore the Schulwerk foundations of play, discovery, movement, improvisation, and student-led creativity. Participants will leave with practical strategies that bring more engagement and imagination into the music classroom. Matthew Stensrud is an award-winning Elementary Music and Movement Teacher at Sidwell Friends Lower School in Washington, DC, and currently serves as President-Elect of AOSA. He is widely known for his dynamic presentations and his work as an Orff Schulwerk-approved Teacher Educator of Movement. Registration is available at SuncoastOrff.org. We look forward to welcoming educators from across Pasco, Polk, Hillsborough, Manatee, Sarasota, and Pinellas Counties for an inspiring start to the year. 🎉

Welcome to the Suncoast Florida Orff Chapter! We are a vibrant community of music educators dedicated to inspiring creativity, collaboration, and joyful music-making through Orff Schulwerk. Whether you're new to Orff or a seasoned educator, we invite you to connect, learn, and grow with us through workshops, professional development, and a shared passion for music education. Check out our website: suncoastorff.org for more information about all that's coming up!