Mastering the IELTS Speaking Task: How to Describe a Music Concert You Recently Attended

The topic of describing a music concert you recently attended is a popular one in IELTS Speaking tests. It allows examiners to assess your ability to recount personal experiences, express opinions, and use descriptive language. This topic has appeared frequently in past IELTS exams and is likely to continue being a common subject in future tests. Let’s explore how to effectively address this topic and maximize your score.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask you some general questions about music and concerts. Here are some common questions you might encounter:

1. Do you enjoy listening to music?
2. What type of music do you prefer?
3. Have you ever been to a live music concert?
4. How often do you attend concerts?

Let’s look at a sample answer for the question “Have you ever been to a live music concert?”:

Sample Answer (Band 7-8):
“Yes, I have attended several live music concerts. In fact, I make it a point to go to at least one or two concerts a year. The most recent one I went to was a rock concert by a popular local band in my city. It was an exhilarating experience with incredible energy from both the performers and the audience. There’s something truly magical about hearing music live that you can’t get from listening to recordings.”

Describe a recent online event that you found engaging

Part 2: Long Turn

In this section, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic to speak about for 1-2 minutes. Here’s a sample cue card related to the theme:

Describe A Music Concert You Attended Recently
You should say:
- When and where the concert took place
- What kind of music was performed
- Who you went to the concert with
- And explain why you enjoyed it or not

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

“I’d like to talk about a phenomenal concert I attended last month at the Grand Arena in my city. It was a much-anticipated performance by a world-renowned jazz ensemble that I’d been eagerly looking forward to for weeks.

The concert took place on a balmy Saturday evening, and the atmosphere was electric from the moment we stepped into the venue. The Grand Arena is a state-of-the-art facility known for its exceptional acoustics, which made it the perfect setting for a jazz performance.

The ensemble performed a diverse repertoire of jazz music, ranging from classic standards to contemporary compositions. What struck me the most was their impeccable improvisation skills and the way they seamlessly blended different jazz styles. The highlight of the evening was an extended saxophone solo that left the entire audience spellbound.

I went to the concert with my best friend, who’s also a huge jazz enthusiast. We’ve been attending concerts together for years, and it’s always a joy to share these experiences with someone who appreciates the music as much as I do.

I thoroughly enjoyed the concert for several reasons. Firstly, the musicianship was absolutely top-notch. Each member of the ensemble was a virtuoso in their own right, and their collective performance was nothing short of mesmerizing. Secondly, the energy in the arena was palpable – you could feel the audience’s excitement and engagement throughout the show. Lastly, the concert rekindled my passion for jazz music and inspired me to explore more of this genre.

In conclusion, this concert was a truly unforgettable experience that combined exceptional music, a fantastic venue, and great company. It’s events like these that remind me of the power of live music to move and inspire us.”

Jazz concert at the Grand Arena

Follow-up Questions:

1. How did the atmosphere of the concert contribute to your enjoyment?
2. Would you recommend this concert to others? Why or why not?

Sample Answers (Band 8-9):

1. “The atmosphere played a crucial role in my enjoyment of the concert. The Grand Arena’s design created an intimate setting despite its large size, allowing for a strong connection between the performers and the audience. The lighting was expertly done, with soft, warm hues that complemented the mood of the jazz music perfectly. Moreover, the enthusiasm of the crowd was contagious, creating a shared experience that elevated the entire event. This collective energy made the concert feel like more than just a performance – it was a communal celebration of music.”

2. “I would wholeheartedly recommend this concert to others, especially to jazz aficionados. The caliber of musicianship on display was truly world-class, offering both seasoned jazz listeners and newcomers an exceptional experience. Furthermore, the diverse repertoire performed by the ensemble showcased the breadth and depth of jazz music, making it an educational experience as well as an entertaining one. Even for those who might not be die-hard jazz fans, I believe the sheer skill and passion of the performers would be deeply impressive and potentially spark a new interest in the genre.”

Describe a recent virtual experience that was memorable

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In this section, the examiner will ask you more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:

Q1: How has technology changed the way we experience live music?

Sample Answer (Band 7-8):
“Technology has significantly transformed our experience of live music in several ways. Firstly, advanced sound systems have greatly improved the audio quality at concerts, allowing even large venues to deliver crisp, clear sound to every attendee. Secondly, visual effects such as elaborate light shows and video projections have become an integral part of many concerts, enhancing the overall spectacle.

Moreover, social media has changed how we interact with live events. People often share their experiences in real-time, creating a wider sense of participation. Some concerts even incorporate audience participation through smartphone apps, blurring the line between performers and spectators.

However, there’s a potential downside to this technological integration. Some argue that the constant use of smartphones to capture moments can detract from the immediacy of the live experience. It’s a delicate balance between enhancing the experience through technology and maintaining the authentic connection between artist and audience.”

Q2: Do you think traditional forms of music are at risk of disappearing due to modern music trends?

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“This is a complex issue that doesn’t have a straightforward answer. On one hand, there’s a valid concern about traditional music forms being overshadowed by modern trends, especially in mainstream media and among younger generations. The allure of contemporary genres, often backed by major marketing efforts, can indeed draw attention away from traditional forms.

However, I believe that traditional music has a certain timeless quality that allows it to persist and even thrive in various ways. Many modern artists are actually incorporating elements of traditional music into their work, creating fusion genres that bridge the gap between old and new. This cross-pollination often leads to a renewed interest in the original traditional forms.

Moreover, there’s been a growing movement in recent years to preserve and promote cultural heritage, including traditional music. Many countries have implemented programs to support traditional artists and educate younger generations about their musical heritage. Digital platforms have also made it easier for people to discover and access traditional music from around the world.

In conclusion, while traditional music forms may face challenges in the modern landscape, I don’t believe they’re at risk of disappearing entirely. Instead, they’re likely to evolve and adapt, finding new audiences and expressions in the contemporary world. The key lies in striking a balance between preserving the authenticity of traditional forms and allowing them to remain relevant in a changing musical ecosystem.”

Traditional vs Modern Music

Describe a time when you attended a big event

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

To achieve a high score in your IELTS Speaking test, it’s crucial to use a range of sophisticated vocabulary and phrases. Here are some examples related to describing a music concert:

1. Electrifying atmosphere /ɪˈlek.trɪ.faɪ.ɪŋ ˈæt.mə.sfɪər/ (noun phrase): An extremely exciting and energetic environment.
   Example: “The electrifying atmosphere at the concert had everyone on their feet.”

2. Mesmerizing performance /ˈmez.mə.raɪ.zɪŋ pəˈfɔː.məns/ (noun phrase): A captivating and spellbinding show.
   Example: “The lead singer gave a mesmerizing performance that left the audience in awe.”

3. Acoustics /əˈkuː.stɪks/ (noun): The qualities of a room or building that determine how sound is transmitted in it.
   Example: “The concert hall’s excellent acoustics enhanced the quality of the music.”

4. Crescendo /krəˈʃen.dəʊ/ (noun): A gradual increase in loudness or intensity.
   Example: “The song reached its crescendo, with the entire audience singing along.”

5. Encore /ˈɒŋ.kɔːr/ (noun): An additional performance given after the scheduled performance, usually in response to audience demand.
   Example: “The crowd’s enthusiastic applause prompted the band to return for an encore.”

6. Virtuoso /ˌvɜː.tʃuˈəʊ.səʊ/ (noun/adjective): A person highly skilled in music or another artistic pursuit.
   Example: “The guitarist’s virtuoso solo was the highlight of the evening.”

7. Eclectic mix /ɪˈklek.tɪk mɪks/ (noun phrase): A diverse and varied selection.
   Example: “The concert featured an eclectic mix of musical styles, from jazz to rock.”

8. Standing ovation /ˌstæn.dɪŋ əʊˈveɪ.ʃən/ (noun phrase): Applause given by an audience standing up to show enthusiastic appreciation.
   Example: “The performance was so impressive that it received a standing ovation.”

Describe a public place you enjoy visiting

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing a music concert:

1. Use descriptive language: Paint a vivid picture of the concert experience using adjectives and sensory details.

2. Demonstrate a range of vocabulary: Incorporate music-specific terms and sophisticated vocabulary to showcase your language proficiency.

3. Speak fluently and coherently: Practice organizing your thoughts to deliver a smooth, well-structured response.

4. Show enthusiasm: Convey your emotions and opinions about the concert to make your description more engaging.

5. Provide specific examples: Include particular moments or details from the concert to add authenticity to your description.

6. Use idiomatic expressions: Incorporate relevant idioms or phrasal verbs naturally in your speech.

7. Vary your sentence structures: Use a mix of simple, compound, and complex sentences to demonstrate your grammatical range.

8. Maintain good pronunciation and intonation: Pay attention to your pronunciation and use appropriate intonation to convey meaning effectively.

Remember, regular practice is key to improving your speaking skills. Try describing different types of events or experiences to broaden your vocabulary and increase your confidence in various topics.

when did you last go to a concert ielts

By following these guidelines and incorporating the sample answers and vocabulary provided, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss a music concert you’ve attended in your IELTS Speaking test. Good luck with your preparation!