Mastering the Art of Describing Famous Musicians: A Guide to IELTS Speaking Success

The ability to describe a famous artist or musician from your country is a crucial skill for IELTS Speaking success. This topic has consistently appeared in IELTS exams across various countries and is likely to remain relevant in future tests. Let’s explore how to approach this topic effectively and score high marks in your IELTS Speaking exam.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

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

1. Do you enjoy listening to music?
2. What type of music is popular in your country?
3. Have you ever been to a live music concert?

Let’s look at a sample answer for the first question:

Examiner: Do you enjoy listening to music?

Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Absolutely, I’m quite passionate about music. I find it to be a great source of relaxation and inspiration, especially after a long day at work. I particularly enjoy exploring different genres, from classical to contemporary pop, as it broadens my musical horizons and helps me appreciate the diversity of musical expression.”

Part 2: Long Turn

For 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 our main topic:

Describe a famous musician from your country
You should say:
- Who this person is
- What kind of music they perform
- How you first heard about them
- And explain why they are famous

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

“I’d like to talk about A.R. Rahman, a world-renowned musician from India. He’s an exceptionally talented composer, singer, and music producer who has revolutionized the Indian film music industry.

Rahman is best known for his innovative fusion of Eastern classical music with Western musical styles, particularly electronic music. He effortlessly blends traditional Indian instruments like the sitar and tabla with modern synthesizers and orchestral arrangements, creating a unique and captivating sound.

I first heard about Rahman when I was a teenager, watching the movie ‘Roja’. The haunting melodies and intricate compositions in the film’s soundtrack immediately captivated me. From that moment, I began following his work closely.

Rahman’s fame stems from his extraordinary ability to create music that transcends cultural and linguistic barriers. He has won numerous awards, including two Academy Awards for his work on the film ‘Slumdog Millionaire’. His compositions have a universal appeal, touching the hearts of listeners worldwide. Moreover, Rahman’s humble personality and dedication to his craft have earned him respect not just as a musician, but as a cultural icon.

In essence, A.R. Rahman’s fame is a result of his innovative approach to music, his ability to bridge diverse musical traditions, and his consistent delivery of high-quality, emotionally resonant compositions that have left an indelible mark on the global music scene.”

A.R. Rahman performing live on stage

Possible follow-up questions:

1. How has this musician influenced the music industry in your country?
2. Do you think it’s important for musicians to preserve traditional music styles?

Sample answer for question 1 (Band 8-9):

“A.R. Rahman has had a profound impact on the Indian music industry. He has paved the way for a new generation of musicians to experiment with fusion styles, bridging the gap between classical Indian music and contemporary global sounds. His success has also elevated the status of film music composers, encouraging more investment in high-quality soundtracks. Moreover, Rahman’s international recognition has opened doors for other Indian musicians on the global stage, fostering a greater appreciation for Indian music worldwide.”

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

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

Examiner: How do you think technology has changed the way we consume music?

Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Technology has fundamentally transformed our music consumption habits. Streaming platforms have made an vast array of music instantly accessible, allowing listeners to explore diverse genres and artists from around the world with unprecedented ease. This has broadened musical horizons and fostered greater cultural exchange.

Moreover, algorithms on these platforms curate personalized playlists, introducing users to new artists based on their listening habits. This has democratized the music industry to some extent, giving independent artists a chance to reach a wider audience without the backing of major labels.

However, this shift has also posed challenges. The ease of access to music has perhaps diminished its perceived value, with some arguing that it has led to a more disposable attitude towards music. Additionally, the prevalence of playlists and shuffle features might be reducing the appreciation for albums as cohesive artistic statements.

On balance, while technology has undoubtedly enhanced accessibility and diversity in music consumption, it’s crucial that we remain mindful of preserving the depth and integrity of musical experiences.”

Various devices showing music streaming platforms

Key Vocabulary and Phrases

To elevate your IELTS Speaking performance, incorporate these sophisticated words and phrases:

1. Innovative fusion (noun phrase) – /ˈɪnəveɪtɪv ˈfjuːʒən/ – A creative combination of different styles or ideas
   Example: “The band’s innovative fusion of jazz and electronic music attracted a diverse audience.”

2. Transcend (verb) – /trænˈsend/ – To go beyond the usual limits of something
   Example: “Great music has the power to transcend cultural and linguistic barriers.”

3. Indelible mark (noun phrase) – /ɪnˈdeləbl mɑːk/ – A lasting impression or effect
   Example: “The Beatles left an indelible mark on the history of popular music.”

4. Revolutionize (verb) – /ˌrevəˈluːʃənaɪz/ – To change something completely and fundamentally
   Example: “Streaming services have revolutionized the way we consume music.”

5. Captivating (adjective) – /ˈkæptɪveɪtɪŋ/ – Capable of attracting and holding interest; charming
   Example: “The singer’s captivating voice silenced the entire audience.”

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing a famous artist or performer you admire, focus on these key areas:

1. Vocabulary: Use a range of sophisticated and topic-specific words. Practice incorporating words like “innovative”, “transcend”, and “revolutionize” into your responses.

2. Fluency: Aim for smooth delivery with minimal hesitation. Regular practice speaking about various artists and music styles can help improve your fluency.

3. Coherence: Organize your thoughts logically. Use linking words and phrases to connect your ideas smoothly.

4. Pronunciation: Pay attention to stress and intonation, particularly with music-related terms. Practice pronouncing names of artists and musical instruments correctly.

5. Elaboration: Don’t just state facts; explain your points and provide examples. When discussing an artist’s influence, for instance, give specific examples of how they’ve impacted the industry or other musicians.

Remember, the key to success lies in regular practice and exposure to a wide range of music-related topics. Consider listening to interviews with musicians or reading music reviews to broaden your vocabulary and understanding of the subject.

IELTS candidate preparing for speaking test

By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to describe a famous artist or musician you admire or discuss any music-related topic in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember, confidence comes with preparation, so immerse yourself in the world of music and enjoy the learning process!