In the IELTS Speaking test, candidates often encounter questions about people and their interests. One such topic that has appeared in past exams and is likely to resurface is describing someone who values music. This article will guide you through answering this question effectively, providing sample responses for different band scores and essential vocabulary to help you excel in your IELTS Speaking exam.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask you some general questions about music. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:
Question: “Do you enjoy listening to music?”
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Absolutely! I’m quite passionate about music and try to incorporate it into my daily routine. I find that different genres can suit various moods and activities. For instance, I often listen to classical music when I’m studying as it helps me concentrate, while upbeat pop songs are perfect for my morning workout sessions. Music has this incredible ability to elevate my mood and make mundane tasks more enjoyable.”
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card
Describe a person who thinks music is important.
You should say:
- Who this person is
- What kind of music they like
- How you know about their interest in music
- And explain why they think music is important
Sample Answer (Band 6-7)
“I’d like to talk about my friend Sarah, who is absolutely passionate about music. She’s been my classmate since high school, and her love for music has always been evident. Sarah particularly enjoys indie rock and alternative genres, and she’s constantly discovering new bands and artists.
I became aware of her deep interest in music through our daily interactions. She would always have her headphones on between classes and eagerly share new songs she had discovered. Sarah often organizes small gatherings where we listen to vinyl records, which she collects enthusiastically.
From what I understand, Sarah believes music is crucial because it serves as a form of self-expression and emotional outlet. She finds comfort in lyrics that resonate with her experiences and feels that music has the power to bring people together. Sarah has mentioned how certain songs have helped her through difficult times, acting almost like a form of therapy.
In conclusion, Sarah’s dedication to music goes beyond mere entertainment. For her, it’s a vital part of life that influences her mood, relationships, and personal growth.”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
“I’d like to discuss my former music teacher, Mr. Johnson, who exemplifies someone who truly values the importance of music. He’s been a pivotal figure in shaping my understanding of music’s significance in our lives.
Mr. Johnson is an eclectic music enthusiast, with a particular penchant for jazz and classical compositions. His taste spans from the intricate improvisations of Miles Davis to the grandiose symphonies of Beethoven. This diverse appreciation allows him to connect with students across various musical preferences.
His passion for music became evident through his engaging teaching methods. Mr. Johnson would often integrate historical and cultural contexts into our lessons, demonstrating how music has been a catalyst for social change and a reflection of societal values throughout history. He would illuminate the classroom with anecdotes about composers and musicians, bringing their stories to life and making us appreciate the human aspect behind each composition.
For Mr. Johnson, music transcends mere entertainment; it’s a fundamental aspect of the human experience. He fervently believes that music has the power to bridge cultural divides, evoke profound emotions, and foster cognitive development. He often emphasized how learning an instrument can enhance problem-solving skills and boost creativity. Moreover, he views music as a universal language that can convey messages and unite people across different backgrounds.
In essence, Mr. Johnson’s perspective on music’s importance stems from its multifaceted impact on personal growth, social cohesion, and cultural expression. His unwavering dedication to sharing this belief has inspired countless students, myself included, to view music not just as a hobby, but as an integral part of our lives and society.”
Music teacher inspiring students
Follow-up Questions
- How has this person’s love for music influenced you?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Mr. Johnson’s passion for music has had a profound impact on my life. His teachings have broadened my musical horizons, encouraging me to explore genres I previously overlooked. More importantly, he’s taught me to appreciate music on a deeper level, not just for its melodic qualities but also for its historical and cultural significance. This newfound perspective has enriched my understanding of different cultures and enhanced my empathy towards others. Additionally, inspired by his enthusiasm, I’ve taken up learning the piano, which has boosted my cognitive abilities and provided a therapeutic outlet for stress relief.”
- Do you think music education should be mandatory in schools?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“I firmly believe that music education should be a core component of school curricula. Music offers numerous benefits beyond just entertainment. It can enhance cognitive development, particularly in areas like mathematics and language skills. Moreover, learning an instrument or participating in a choir can foster teamwork, boost self-confidence, and provide students with a creative outlet. Music education also exposes students to diverse cultures, promoting cultural understanding and appreciation. While I understand the challenges of implementing comprehensive music programs in all schools, even basic music appreciation courses could significantly enrich students’ educational experiences.”
Describe a person you admire for their creativity in music or other arts, as it can provide additional insights into discussing influential figures in your IELTS Speaking test.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: “How do you think technology has changed the way we experience music?”
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Technology has revolutionized our relationship with music in numerous ways. Streaming platforms have made music more accessible than ever before, allowing us to discover new artists and genres with just a few clicks. This has broadened our musical horizons and exposed us to diverse cultural influences. Additionally, advances in audio technology have enhanced the quality of our listening experience, whether through high-fidelity headphones or sophisticated home speaker systems.
On the flip side, some argue that this abundance of choice has led to a more superficial engagement with music. People might be less inclined to listen to full albums or deeply analyze lyrics when they can easily skip to the next track. Moreover, algorithms that suggest music based on our listening habits might create echo chambers, limiting our exposure to truly novel sounds.
Nevertheless, I believe the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. Technology has democratized music production, allowing independent artists to reach global audiences without the need for major record labels. It has also enabled new forms of musical creativity, such as electronic music and remixing, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in music creation.”
Examiner: “Do you think the importance of music in society has changed over time?”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“The role and importance of music in society have undoubtedly evolved over time, though its fundamental significance remains constant. Historically, music has served various crucial functions – from religious and ceremonial purposes to storytelling and cultural preservation. In many ancient societies, music was intrinsically linked to spiritual practices and played a vital role in community cohesion.
As societies have become more complex and technologically advanced, music’s role has expanded and diversified. In the modern era, while maintaining its cultural and spiritual significance, music has also become a powerful tool for social and political expression. The protest songs of the 1960s, for instance, were instrumental in shaping public opinion during the civil rights movement and anti-war protests.
Moreover, the globalization of music has led to unprecedented cultural exchange, fostering greater understanding between different societies. This has simultaneously led to the homogenization of popular music styles and the preservation of traditional music forms as cultural heritage.
In the digital age, music has become more accessible and personalized than ever before. While this has democratized music consumption and production, it has also led to challenges such as copyright issues and debates about fair compensation for artists.
Despite these changes, I would argue that music’s importance hasn’t diminished but rather transformed. It continues to be a universal language that can evoke emotions, unite people, and reflect societal values. What has changed is how we interact with music and its increased integration into various aspects of our daily lives, from personal entertainment to marketing and therapy.
In conclusion, while the specific roles of music in society have evolved, its fundamental importance as a form of human expression and connection remains as significant as ever, if not more so in our increasingly interconnected world.”
Music evolution through history
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Eclectic /ɪˈklektɪk/ (adjective): Deriving ideas, style, or taste from a broad and diverse range of sources.
Example: “Her eclectic taste in music ranges from classical to contemporary indie rock.”Penchant /ˈpentʃənt/ (noun): A strong or habitual liking for something or tendency to do something.
Example: “He has a penchant for jazz music, particularly from the bebop era.”Improvisation /ɪmˌprɒvəˈzeɪʃn/ (noun): The act of creating or performing something spontaneously or without preparation.
Example: “Jazz musicians are known for their skill in improvisation during live performances.”Transcend /trænˈsend/ (verb): To go beyond the range or limits of something abstract, typically a conceptual field or division.
Example: “Great music has the power to transcend cultural and linguistic barriers.”Catalyst /ˈkætəlɪst/ (noun): A person or thing that precipitates an event or change.
Example: “The Beatles were a catalyst for significant social and cultural changes in the 1960s.”Multifaceted /ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/ (adjective): Having many different aspects or features.
Example: “Music education offers multifaceted benefits, including cognitive, emotional, and social development.”
Describe a person who has a unique way of thinking about music or art, as this can help you articulate complex ideas about creativity and personal expression in your IELTS Speaking test.
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing topics like music and its importance:
Vocabulary: Use a range of advanced vocabulary related to music and emotions. Practice incorporating words like “melodic”, “harmonious”, “rhythmic”, “evocative”, and “resonant” into your responses.
Personal Experiences: Draw from your own experiences with music to make your answers more authentic and engaging. This could include concerts you’ve attended, instruments you play, or how music affects your daily life.
Cultural Awareness: Demonstrate your understanding of music’s role in different cultures and historical contexts. This showcases your global awareness, which is highly valued in the IELTS test.
Coherent Structure: Organize your thoughts logically, especially in Part 2. Use linking words to connect your ideas smoothly and create a well-structured response.
Critical Thinking: In Part 3, show your ability to analyze and evaluate by discussing both positive and negative aspects of music’s influence on society or individuals.
Fluency and Pronunciation: Practice speaking about music-related topics to improve your fluency. Pay attention to the correct pronunciation of musical terms and genres.
Expand Your Responses: Don’t give short, simple answers. Elaborate on your points with examples, explanations, and personal insights to showcase your English proficiency.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about answering the question, but how you express your ideas. Practice regularly, expose yourself to diverse music-related content in English, and focus on developing a natural, confident speaking style.