The Effect of the Orff Music on Improving Rhythm Structuring

study examined the effectiveness of the Orff music on improving rhythm structure of girls between ages 6-11 in Tehran. 42 students were selected from music classes and were matched with the control group (n=42) by mental age using Colored Person Test. Before the start of music training classes and three months after, both groups were assigned to Stamback rhythm test which was composed of three parts: spontaneous rhythm speed, auditory rhythm reproduction, symbolization and visual reproduction of rhythm. The findings indicated: (1) Improvement of rhythm structure but no significant difference in speed reduction in spontaneous rhythm in the study group, (2) There were no significant difference in auditory reproductions between the two groups, (3) The enhancement of symbolization was revealed in the whole music group, but progress of rhythm structuring production was shown only in 10-11 year olds. In conclusion Orff music is only effective in improving rhythm rate and visual reproduction of rhythm in subjects aged 10-11.