Music on Monday

Autumn 2026

This term, our Music on Monday songs will have a special focus: caring for ourselves. This links to work we are going to be doing on Social Signature, where we are beginning our journey by thinking about ME.

Social Signature encourages us to think about who we are, what makes us unique, how we feel, what we need and the positive choices we can make for ourselves and others. Throughout the term, our songs will help us to explore these ideas in a fun and memorable way.

Each week, we will discover a different song, exploring not only its meaning and message, but also the music itself – including different genres, instruments, rhythms, melodies and performers. We hope our Music Monday choices will give children the opportunity to listen, sing, move, reflect and learn something new about music and themselves.

As we begin the new school year, our message is simple:

There is only one ME – and I am worth looking after!

21st September

Brave

Sara Bareilles

This week’s Music on Monday song is “Brave” by Sara Bareilles, linking perfectly with our Social Signature ‘ME’ focus: the power of believing in myself. Sara Bareilles is an American singer-songwriter and pianist, known for her strong vocals and songs that often tell a story or share a positive message. Brave is an upbeat pop song with a lively piano-led sound and a powerful, uplifting feel. The song encourages us to have confidence in ourselves, find the courage to speak up and not be afraid to show others who we really are. As you listen, think about what it means to be brave: sometimes bravery isn’t about doing something huge; it can be believing in yourself, having a go when something feels difficult, sharing an idea or simply having the confidence to be you. This week, remember that your voice, strengths and ideas matter — believe in yourself and be brave enough to let your Social Signature shine! 

14th September

Ode to Joy

Ludwig van Beethoven

This week’s Music on Monday is Ode to Joy by Ludwig van Beethoven, linking beautifully to our Social Signature theme, “How will the world remember me?” Ode to Joy forms the famous final movement of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony, first performed in Vienna in 1824. It is a piece of classical orchestral and choral music, combining a full orchestra with singers and a choir – something groundbreaking for a symphony at the time. Its uplifting melody and message of joy, friendship and people coming together have helped it become one of the most recognised pieces of classical music in the world. 

Beethoven was born in Germany in 1770 and became one of history’s most influential composers. Remarkably, by the time his Ninth Symphony was performed, he was profoundly deaf and could not hear the audience applauding his music. Almost 200 years after his death, Beethoven’s music is still performed and enjoyed across the world. 

As we listen, we can think about Beethoven’s legacy: he used his talent and determination to create something that has outlived him and continues to bring joy to others. What would we like people to remember about us? What talents, qualities, actions or kindness could become part of our own legacy? 

7th September

Try Everything

Shakira

This week’s Music on Monday song is Try Everything by Colombian singer Shakira. This lively pop song, which featured in the animated film Zootropolis, has an upbeat rhythm, an energetic melody and an encouraging message about perseverance. It reminds us that making mistakes is an important part of learning and that we should keep trying, even when things do not go to plan. This links perfectly to our Social Signature work on developing ME: recognising our strengths, believing in our potential and having the courage to try new things as we continue discovering who we are and who we can become. 

2nd September

The One and Only

Chesney Hawkes

We are starting our year by thinking about what makes each of us unique, special and important. Our song for this week is I Am the One and Only by Chesney Hawkes, a popular song from the early 1990s.

The song is a pop/rock anthem with a strong, catchy chorus and an upbeat, energetic feel. It celebrates individuality, confidence and being proud of who you are – making it a perfect song to launch our focus on ME.

As we listen and sing along, we will think about our strengths, talents, interests and the things that make us who we are. We will also think about how we can care for ourselves by recognising our feelings, looking after our wellbeing and being proud of the person we are becoming.

Music to make us think:
What makes me special? What am I good at? What makes me… ME?

This week, remember: there is only one YOU – and that is something to celebrate!