The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about personal preferences, including favorite music. This topic is particularly common in Part 1 and occasionally appears in Part 2 cue cards. Being prepared to discuss your favorite piece of music can help you demonstrate your English language skills effectively.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask questions like:
- What kind of music do you enjoy listening to?
- Do you have a favorite song or piece of music?
- How often do you listen to music?
Let’s focus on answering the second question:
Examiner: Do you have a favorite song or piece of music?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I do. My favorite piece of music is “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen. It’s a really interesting song with different parts and styles. I like how it changes from slow to fast and has both quiet and loud sections. The lyrics are also quite meaningful to me.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely. My favorite piece of music is “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen. I find it utterly captivating due to its innovative structure and genre-defying composition. The song seamlessly blends elements of rock, opera, and ballad, creating a musical journey that never fails to evoke strong emotions. Moreover, Freddie Mercury’s masterful vocals and the poignant lyrics add layers of depth that I continue to appreciate with each listen.
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card:
Describe a favorite piece of music and why it is special to you.
You should say:
- What the piece of music is
- When you first heard it
- How it makes you feel
- And explain why it is special to you
Band 6-7 Answer:
The piece of music I want to talk about is “Imagine” by John Lennon. I first heard this song when I was in high school, during a music class. The teacher played it for us and explained its meaning.
When I listen to “Imagine,” it makes me feel peaceful and hopeful. The simple melody is very calming, and the lyrics make me think about a better world. I especially like the part where he sings about people living in peace.
This song is special to me because it has an important message about unity and equality. It reminds me that we should try to make the world a better place. Also, whenever I hear it, it brings back good memories of my school days and the friends I made there.
In conclusion, “Imagine” is more than just a song to me. It’s a source of inspiration and a reminder of the power of music to spread positive ideas.
Band 8-9 Answer:
The piece of music I’d like to discuss is “Imagine” by John Lennon, a seminal work that has profoundly impacted both my personal outlook and my appreciation for music’s role in society.
I first encountered this iconic composition during a pivotal moment in my adolescence – a high school music appreciation class. Our instructor, recognizing the song’s cultural significance, used it as a springboard for a broader discussion on music as a vehicle for social commentary.
Whenever I listen to “Imagine,” I’m overwhelmed by a sense of serenity coupled with a surge of optimism. The deceptively simple melody, carried by Lennon’s plaintive vocals, creates an atmosphere of tranquility. However, it’s the lyrics that truly resonate with me on a profound level. They paint a vivid picture of a world united in peace and equality, which never fails to stir my emotions.
This piece holds a special place in my heart for several reasons. Primarily, its message of unity and harmony aligns perfectly with my personal values and aspirations for society. The song serves as a poignant reminder of our shared humanity and the potential for positive change. Additionally, it evokes nostalgic memories of my formative years and the friendships forged during that time.
Moreover, “Imagine” exemplifies the power of music as a catalyst for social change. Its enduring popularity and continued relevance decades after its release underscore the timeless nature of its message. The song has become a touchstone for me, a musical North Star that I return to whenever I need inspiration or a renewed sense of purpose.
In conclusion, “Imagine” transcends its status as a mere song in my life. It stands as a beacon of hope, a testament to music’s transformative power, and a constant source of inspiration that continues to shape my worldview and aspirations.
Describe a memorable concert or live performance you attended
Follow-up Questions:
- How has your taste in music changed over time?
Band 6-7 Answer:
My taste in music has definitely changed as I’ve grown older. When I was younger, I mostly listened to popular music that was on the radio. Now, I appreciate a wider variety of genres, including classical and jazz. I think this change happened because I’ve been exposed to more types of music and have learned to understand different styles better.
Band 8-9 Answer:
My musical preferences have undergone a significant evolution over the years. In my youth, I was primarily drawn to mainstream pop and rock, largely influenced by what was dominating the airwaves. However, as I’ve matured, my taste has become considerably more eclectic and nuanced. I’ve developed a deep appreciation for genres like jazz, classical, and world music, which I once found inaccessible. This shift can be attributed to a combination of factors: increased exposure to diverse musical traditions, a growing understanding of music theory and composition, and life experiences that have broadened my emotional palette. Now, I find myself gravitating towards music that offers complex harmonies, intricate rhythms, and profound lyrical content, regardless of its commercial popularity.
- Do you think music can influence people’s behavior?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I believe music can influence people’s behavior. For example, upbeat music can make people feel more energetic and happy, while slow music might help them relax. Some studies have shown that music can affect our mood and even our productivity. In shops and restaurants, they often play certain types of music to create a specific atmosphere and influence customers’ behavior.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely, I’m convinced that music wields a profound influence on human behavior. This impact manifests in myriad ways, ranging from the subtle to the overt. On a psychological level, music has the power to modulate our moods and alter our emotional states. Uplifting melodies can boost our spirits and increase productivity, while melancholic tunes might induce introspection or even sadness.
Moreover, music’s influence extends to physiological responses. Research has demonstrated that certain rhythms can synchronize with our heartbeat and breathing patterns, potentially affecting our stress levels and overall well-being. In social contexts, shared musical experiences can foster a sense of unity and collective identity, as evidenced by the power of national anthems or the bonding effect of concert attendance.
The commercial world has long recognized and harnessed music’s behavioral influence. Retailers and restaurateurs strategically employ specific genres and tempos to create ambiance, influence purchasing decisions, and even control the pace at which patrons eat or shop. Similarly, the use of music in film and advertising exemplifies its ability to evoke emotions and shape perceptions, often subconsciously guiding viewers’ reactions.
In essence, music’s capacity to influence behavior is a testament to its universal language and its deep-rooted connection to our cognitive and emotional processes.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: How do you think music affects society?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I think music has a big impact on society. It can bring people together and express important ideas. For example, many social movements have used music to spread their message. Music also reflects the culture and values of a society. In some countries, traditional music is very important for preserving cultural identity. Additionally, the music industry is a big part of the economy in many places, creating jobs and contributing to economic growth.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Music, in my opinion, exerts a profound and multifaceted influence on society. Its impact can be observed across various dimensions – cultural, social, economic, and even political.
Culturally, music serves as a powerful medium for preserving and transmitting heritage. Traditional music, in particular, plays a crucial role in maintaining cultural identity, especially in an increasingly globalized world. Moreover, music often acts as a barometer of societal changes, reflecting and sometimes driving shifts in social norms and values.
Socially, music has an unparalleled ability to unite diverse groups of people. It transcends linguistic and cultural barriers, fostering a sense of community and shared experience. This unifying power is evident in how music has been instrumental in various social movements throughout history, from civil rights to environmental awareness.
Economically, the music industry is a significant contributor to many national economies. It generates employment across a wide spectrum of roles, from artists and producers to marketers and event organizers. The rise of digital platforms has further expanded its economic impact, creating new revenue streams and business models.
Politically, music has often served as a vehicle for dissent and social commentary. Protest songs, for instance, have been powerful tools in challenging the status quo and advocating for change. Governments have recognized this potential, sometimes leading to censorship or the promotion of certain types of music for nationalistic purposes.
Furthermore, music’s influence extends to individual and public health. Research has shown its potential in therapeutic applications, such as reducing stress, managing pain, and even aiding in the treatment of certain neurological conditions.
In conclusion, music’s impact on society is both pervasive and profound, shaping our cultural narratives, social interactions, economic structures, and even our approach to health and well-being.
Describe a favorite piece of music that makes you feel good
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
-
Genre-defying (adjective) /ˈʒɒnrə dɪˌfaɪɪŋ/: Not fitting into a single genre or category.
Example: The band’s latest album is truly genre-defying, blending elements of rock, jazz, and electronic music. -
Evoke (verb) /ɪˈvəʊk/: To bring a feeling, memory, or image into the mind.
Example: The haunting melody evokes memories of my childhood. -
Seminal (adjective) /ˈsemɪnl/: Strongly influencing later developments.
Example: Bob Dylan’s early works are considered seminal in the development of folk rock. -
Resonate (verb) /ˈrezəneɪt/: To evoke or suggest images, memories, and emotions.
Example: The lyrics of the song resonated deeply with her personal experiences. -
Plaintive (adjective) /ˈpleɪntɪv/: Expressing sorrow; mournful.
Example: The singer’s plaintive voice conveyed the sadness of the lyrics perfectly. -
Eclectic (adjective) /ɪˈklektɪk/: Deriving ideas, style, or taste from a broad and diverse range of sources.
Example: Her music collection is remarkably eclectic, ranging from classical symphonies to experimental electronic music.
Describe a concert you want to attend
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing music:
- Use a wide range of vocabulary related to music, emotions, and personal experiences.
- Provide detailed explanations and examples to support your points.
- Speak fluently and coherently, using appropriate linking words and phrases.
- Demonstrate your ability to discuss abstract ideas, especially in Part 3.
- Show your understanding of idiomatic language and use it naturally where appropriate.
- Practice describing your favorite music in detail, focusing on why you like it and how it makes you feel.
- Be prepared to discuss broader topics related to music, such as its impact on society or cultural differences in musical preferences.
Remember, the key to success is not just knowing about music, but being able to express your thoughts and opinions clearly and eloquently in English.
Describe a place in your city you like
By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you can improve your ability to discuss music effectively in the IELTS Speaking test, potentially boosting your overall score.