My first time at the IOSFS Convention 2025 in Salzburg

Article by Cristina Rioja.

Edited by Bethany Elsworth.

Photos by Leonardo Riveiro (https://www.leonardoriveiro.com)

It wasn't my first time visiting the city but it was my first time doing so with the aim of attending the Salzburg Forum. This international gathering is concerned with how to maintain and continue the creative work initiated by Gunild Keetman and Carl Orff, along with many who followed them. This year the central theme was, "The Voice: communicating, creating and connecting." These three main actions were present throughout the event and weaved together to generate a network that connected us, allowed us to better communicate, and offered an opportunity to create together through music and movement.      

From a feeling of privilege, I was able to listen to, share, and reflect on different experiences that were taking place in different parts of the world. Knowledgeable professionals who, with humility, shared their best practice. These were aimed at different ages, groups with varying needs, and those in vulnerable situations. Presenters demonstrated that small actions can have a big impact.          

We must not forget that all these events and meetings are possible thanks to people who offer their time and expertise, in most of these cases with an altruistic and vocational motivation. The gratitude felt for having been able to enjoy these days makes people feel the need to repay this time and dedication. Perhaps through small actions in our own surroundings; or facilitating and offering access for others to experience this way of using music and dance education; or by collaborating with associations to organise conferences, courses, or meetings that help to generate new networks at the local level. In essence, finding our own ways of making small things big.     

Once again, I want to thank and acknowledge the work done by the members of the Orff Forum committee, the volunteers, and all the people who helped to make the 2025 IOSFS Convention possible. I would also like to commend all the people that ventured from different corners of the world to attend the discussions and give a voice to this international educational community. Together we support the work of Keetman and Orff. My first time at the Salzburg Forum will not be my last.