Does Music Belong in a Debating Program?

We believe that it definitely does! We believe that music belongs everywhere, including debating programs.

Music can be very motivating for students and motivation is important when it comes to public speaking, and the good news is that there are HEAPS of songs about speaking up, being brave, being confident and being yourself.

Here are some of the ways we use empowering music in our programs: 1. As a warm-up for a class Letting the students dance can help them get their wiggles out before settling down and they are hearing the positive message of the song too. 2. As motivation We often use powerful songs as a way to get motivated before a debate. Everyone knows how good it feels to bop along to an upbeat song. Music can help students feel strong, energised and enthusiastic. 3. To help conquer nerves Just singing a little snippet of a song or the chorus of a song that students have loved in class before a debate or speech can help kids feel less nervous and more ready to tackle anything. Belting out a favourite song together helps students feel confident and focus less on their nerves. 4. Self-expression Music can help kids loosen up and get into a space for creativity and expressing themselves freely!

Some songs that are great for debating classes include:

• Roar, by Katy Perry

• Brave, by Sara Bareilles

• Shake It Off, by Taylor Swift (shaking off nerves)

• Fight Song, by Rachel Platten

• This is Me, from the movie "The Greatest Showman"

• Speak Up, by Isabella Clarke

• Let it Go, from the movie "Frozen" (letting go of our fear)

• You're the Voice, by John Farnham

• All Star, by Smashmouth

• We are the Champions, by Queen

• Born to Try, by Delta Goodrem

• Rise, by Katy Perry

• The Climb, by Miley Cyrus

• Don't Stop Believing, by Journey

• Stronger, by Kelly Clarkson

• Firework, by Katy Perry

Here is a wonderful version of one of our all-time favourite debating songs. What song might light a fire in your debaters?