AOSA Advocates
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AOSA ADVOCACY COUNCIL
AOSA Advocates are outstanding artists from various fields who were invited to join the Council because of their interest in quality arts education for children and their contact with a large audience. They acknowledge the unique value of Orff Schulwerk as a group pedagogy for music learning, and agree to support it publicly. Each new advocate is welcomed and introduced at a national conference.
Gerald McDermott
Gerald McDermott is an award-winning children’s book author and illustrator, with works communicating his deep understanding of the transformative power of myth. His illustrations often combine vivid colors and contemporary designs with ancient imagery. Starting as a filmmaker, his collaboration with Joseph Campbell had significant impact on the psychological depth of his work. Turning to books, he has to date created at least twenty-five. Three have been honored with Caldecott awards:  Anansi the Spider: A Tale from the Ashanti; Arrow to the Sun: A Tale from the Pueblo; and Raven: a Trickster Tale from the Pacific Northwest. Musicians of the Sun, a parable of the artist's journey based on an Aztec myth, has been of particular interest to music teachers. (see www.geraldmcdermott.com)
McDermott was guest artist/presenter at the 1999 National Conference in Phoenix.
Our mission is: to demonstrate the value of Orff Schulwerk and promote its widespread use; to support the professional development of our members; and to inspire and advocate for the creative potential of all learners.