Music has the power to evoke emotions and create lasting memories. This topic frequently appears in IELTS Speaking tests, particularly in Part 2, as it allows candidates to demonstrate their ability to express personal experiences and emotions in English. Similar to describe a favorite song from your childhood, this topic requires careful preparation and thoughtful expression.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview Questions
Common questions examiners ask:
- Do you often listen to music?
- What type of music do you prefer?
- When do you usually listen to music?
- Do you play any musical instruments?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’m absolutely passionate about music and listen to it extensively throughout the day. I have quite eclectic taste, ranging from classical to contemporary pop, but I’m particularly drawn to indie rock. I usually listen while commuting or working out, as it helps me stay motivated and energized.”
Student discussing music listening habits during IELTS speaking test
Part 2: Cue Card
Describe a song that holds special meaning for you
You should say:
- What the song is
- When you first heard it
- Why it is meaningful to you
- And explain how it makes you feel when you listen to it
Just as describe a favorite song or piece of music requires structured responses, here are sample answers at different band levels:
Band 6-7 Response:
“The song that’s really special to me is ‘Hey Jude’ by The Beatles. I first heard it when I was in high school during a difficult time. The lyrics about making things better really helped me stay positive. Every time I listen to it, I feel motivated and happy.”
Band 8-9 Response:
“I’d like to talk about ‘The Sound of Silence’ by Simon & Garfunkel, which holds profound significance for me. I initially encountered this masterpiece during my first year of university, when I was grappling with the challenges of adapting to a new environment. The song’s haunting melody and thought-provoking lyrics about communication and human connection resonated deeply with my personal experiences.
What makes this song particularly meaningful is how it perfectly encapsulates the importance of genuine human connection in our increasingly digital world. The lyrics serve as a powerful reminder of the need to maintain authentic relationships and meaningful conversations.
Whenever I listen to it now, I experience a complex mixture of emotions – there’s a sense of nostalgic reflection, combined with a renewed appreciation for the song’s timeless message. It never fails to give me goosebumps, especially during the crescendo in the final verse.”
Student explaining emotional connection to meaningful song
Part 3: Discussion Questions
Just as describe a family tradition that you value explores cultural significance, these questions delve into music’s broader impact:
Q: How has music consumption changed over the years?
A (Band 8-9): “The digital revolution has fundamentally transformed how we consume music. Streaming platforms have revolutionized accessibility, though this has somewhat diminished the ritual of album listening. However, there’s been a fascinating resurgence in vinyl records, suggesting people still crave tangible connections with their music.”
Q: What role does music play in different cultures?
A (Band 8-9): “Music serves as a cultural cornerstone, acting as a repository of historical narratives and social values. It transcends linguistic barriers and often plays a pivotal role in religious ceremonies and cultural celebrations, fostering community bonds and preserving cultural heritage.”
Key Vocabulary and Expressions
- Profound impact (adj + n): deep and significant effect
- Resonates with (v): creates understanding or empathy
- Evoke emotions (v): bring forth feelings
- Soundtrack to my life (idiomatic): music that represents life experiences
- Melodic composition (adj + n): musical arrangement with tune
- Deeply moving (adv + adj): emotionally affecting
Similar to how describe a childhood friend you are still in touch with requires personal reflection, use these expressions to convey emotional connections to music authentically.
Advanced vocabulary usage in IELTS speaking
Remember to practice these responses while maintaining natural delivery and authentic emotional connection to achieve the highest possible score.
