IELTS Speaking examiners often ask candidates to describe events they look forward to attending. One popular topic is describing a concert you want to attend. This question allows candidates to showcase their vocabulary, fluency, and ability to express personal preferences. Let’s explore how to effectively answer this question and maximize your IELTS Speaking score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions about music and concerts. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:
Q: Do you enjoy listening to music?
A: Absolutely. Music plays a significant role in my life. I find it incredibly therapeutic and often use it to unwind after a long day. I particularly enjoy exploring different genres and discovering new artists, as it broadens my musical horizons.
Describe a shopping center you often visit for entertainment and relaxation, which can be similar to attending a concert in terms of leisure activities.
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:
Describe a concert you want to attend
You should say:
- What type of concert it is
- Where and when it will be held
- Who you would like to go with
- Why you want to attend this concert
Sample Answer (Band 6-7)
I’d like to talk about a rock concert I’m really looking forward to attending. It’s going to be held by my favorite band, Imagine Dragons, next month at the local stadium in my city. I’m planning to go with a group of close friends who share my taste in music.
The main reason I want to attend this concert is that I’m a huge fan of Imagine Dragons. I’ve been following their music for years and I absolutely love their energetic performances. Their songs are incredibly catchy and always lift my mood.
I think the atmosphere at the concert will be amazing. I can imagine the crowd singing along to all the popular songs and the excitement in the air. It’s not just about listening to the music, but also about experiencing it live with thousands of other fans.
Another reason I’m excited is that this will be my first time seeing Imagine Dragons perform live. I’ve watched many of their concerts online, but I believe nothing compares to the real thing. I’m sure it will be an unforgettable experience.
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
I’m eagerly anticipating attending an avant-garde jazz concert featuring the renowned saxophonist, Kamasi Washington. The event is scheduled to take place at the prestigious Royal Albert Hall in London next month, and I’m planning to accompany my music aficionado friend who shares my passion for experimental jazz.
My fervent desire to attend this concert stems from several factors. Firstly, Kamasi Washington is widely regarded as a pioneer in the contemporary jazz scene. His innovative approach to composition and his virtuosic saxophone skills have revolutionized the genre. I find his music intellectually stimulating and emotionally evocative, and I’m particularly intrigued by how he seamlessly blends elements of classical music, hip-hop, and African rhythms into his jazz compositions.
Moreover, the venue itself adds to the allure of the event. The Royal Albert Hall is steeped in musical history and renowned for its exceptional acoustics. The prospect of experiencing Kamasi Washington’s intricate harmonies and complex rhythms in such a sonically perfect environment is truly tantalizing.
Furthermore, attending this concert would provide a rare opportunity to witness the spontaneity and improvisation that are hallmarks of live jazz performances. I’m fascinated by how jazz musicians interact and respond to each other in real-time, creating a unique musical dialogue that can never be replicated.
Lastly, I believe this concert will be a transformative experience, not just musically but culturally. Kamasi Washington’s music often carries powerful social messages, and I’m keen to see how he translates these themes into his live performance. I anticipate leaving the concert not only musically enriched but also with a broader perspective on contemporary social issues.
Jazz concert at Royal Albert Hall
Follow-up Questions
Q: How do you think the venue affects the concert experience?
A (Band 6-7): I think the venue is really important for a concert. A good venue can make the sound better and create a nice atmosphere. For example, an outdoor venue might be great for a summer concert because people can enjoy the music and the weather at the same time.
A (Band 8-9): The venue plays a crucial role in shaping the overall concert experience. An acoustically optimized space can significantly enhance the sound quality, allowing listeners to fully appreciate the nuances of the music. Additionally, the ambiance of the venue can complement the genre of music being performed. For instance, a classical concert in a grand, historic hall can create an atmosphere of reverence that elevates the entire experience.
Q: Do you think live concerts will remain popular in the future, given the rise of digital streaming platforms?
A (Band 6-7): Yes, I think live concerts will stay popular. Even though we can listen to music online easily, watching a live performance is a different experience. It’s more exciting and you can feel the energy of the crowd. Also, it’s a chance to see your favorite artists in person.
A (Band 8-9): Despite the proliferation of digital streaming platforms, I believe live concerts will continue to thrive. While digital platforms offer convenience and accessibility, they cannot replicate the visceral experience of a live performance. The communal atmosphere, the palpable energy of the crowd, and the unpredictability of live music create an immersive experience that digital platforms simply cannot match. Moreover, concerts offer a tangible connection between artists and fans, fostering a sense of community that is integral to music culture.
Describe an expensive activity you enjoy occasionally, such as attending high-profile concerts, which can be both thrilling and costly.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Q: How has technology changed the way we experience music?
A (Band 6-7): Technology has really changed how we listen to music. Now we can stream music anytime, anywhere on our phones. We also have better sound quality with things like noise-canceling headphones. Social media lets us follow our favorite artists easily. But some people say we lose the special feeling of owning physical albums or going to music stores.
A (Band 8-9): Technology has fundamentally transformed our relationship with music. Digital streaming platforms have democratized access to an vast array of music, allowing listeners to explore diverse genres and artists from around the globe. High-fidelity audio equipment has enhanced our ability to appreciate the nuances of musical compositions. Social media has bridged the gap between artists and fans, creating unprecedented levels of engagement. However, this digital revolution has also altered the economics of the music industry and potentially diminished the tangible connection some feel with physical media. It’s a double-edged sword that offers unparalleled convenience while potentially sacrificing some of the ritualistic aspects of music consumption.
Q: Do you think music education should be compulsory in schools?
A (Band 6-7): Yes, I think music education should be required in schools. It helps students be more creative and can make learning other subjects easier. Music is also a good way to express feelings and can help with stress. Learning an instrument can teach discipline and patience too.
A (Band 8-9): I firmly believe that music education should be an integral part of the school curriculum. Music education fosters creativity, enhances cognitive development, and can significantly improve academic performance in other subjects. It provides a unique medium for self-expression and emotional regulation, which is crucial for students’ mental well-being. Learning music also cultivates discipline, perseverance, and teamwork skills through ensemble playing. Moreover, music education promotes cultural awareness and can serve as a powerful tool for social cohesion. In our increasingly globalized world, the universal language of music can bridge cultural divides and foster mutual understanding.
Describe a weekend that you enjoyed, perhaps one that included attending a memorable concert or music festival.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Avant-garde /ˌævɒ̃ˈɡɑːd/ (adjective): New and experimental ideas in art, music, or literature.
Example: The concert featured avant-garde compositions that challenged traditional musical norms.Virtuosic /ˌvɜːtʃuˈɒsɪk/ (adjective): Extremely skillful.
Example: The guitarist’s virtuosic performance left the audience in awe.Acoustics /əˈkuːstɪks/ (noun): The properties or qualities of a room or building that determine how sound is transmitted in it.
Example: The concert hall is famous for its exceptional acoustics, which enhance the musical experience.Euphoric /juːˈfɒrɪk/ (adjective): Characterized by or feeling intense excitement and happiness.
Example: The crowd was in a euphoric state as the band played their most popular hits.Crescendo /krəˈʃendəʊ/ (noun): A gradual increase in loudness in a piece of music.
Example: The song reached its emotional peak with a powerful crescendo in the final chorus.
Music vocabulary infographic
Tips from an IELTS Examiner
Practice describing emotions: When discussing concerts, focus on expressing the emotions and sensations associated with the experience. This demonstrates your ability to use descriptive language effectively.
Use varied vocabulary: Incorporate a range of music-related terms and adjectives to showcase your lexical resource. Don’t just stick to basic words like “good” or “nice”.
Develop your ideas: Explain your thoughts in detail. Don’t just state that you like a concert; elaborate on why and how it affects you.
Work on pronunciation: Practice pronouncing music-related terms correctly. Clear pronunciation contributes significantly to your overall score.
Stay fluent: Even if you’re unsure about a word, try to maintain fluency. It’s better to use a simpler word fluently than to stumble over a complex one.
Link your ideas: Use connecting phrases to make your speech more cohesive. This shows your ability to construct a well-organized response.
Be authentic: While it’s good to prepare, make sure your responses sound natural and personal. Examiners can tell if you’re reciting memorized answers.
Describe a park you enjoy visiting for exercise, which could be a great place to listen to music while working out, similar to the energy you might feel at a concert.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Practice regularly, seek feedback, and most importantly, enjoy the process of expressing yourself in English.
Describe the weather you like, perhaps relating it to the ideal conditions for an outdoor concert or music festival.