Speaking about music and songs is a common topic in IELTS Speaking tests. The question “describe a song that is special to you” has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to come up again. This topic allows examiners to assess your ability to express personal preferences, describe emotions, and discuss cultural aspects. Let’s explore how to excel in answering this question across all parts of the IELTS Speaking test.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, you may encounter questions related to music and songs. Here are some typical questions and sample answers:
- Do you like listening to music?
- What kind of music do you prefer?
- How often do you listen to music?
Let’s look at a sample answer for the first question:
Examiner: Do you like listening to music?
Candidate (Band 7-8 answer): Absolutely! I’m quite passionate about music and listen to it on a daily basis. It’s not just a hobby for me; it’s an integral part of my life. Music has this incredible ability to uplift my mood and help me unwind after a long day.
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card for the main topic:
Describe a song that is special to you
You should say:
- What the song is
- When you first heard it
- What the song is about
- And explain why this song is special to you
Now, let’s look at sample answers for different band scores:
Band 6-7 Answer:
The song that’s special to me is “Imagine” by John Lennon. I first heard it when I was in high school, during a music class. The song is about world peace and unity. It talks about a world without borders, religions, or possessions – basically, a world where everyone lives in harmony.
This song is special to me for several reasons. Firstly, I really like its melody – it’s simple yet beautiful. Secondly, the lyrics are very meaningful and make me think about important issues in the world. Every time I listen to it, it reminds me to be more compassionate and to think about how I can contribute to making the world a better place.
Band 8-9 Answer:
The song that holds a special place in my heart is “Imagine” by John Lennon. I vividly recall first encountering this masterpiece during a thought-provoking music appreciation class in my sophomore year of high school.
At its core, “Imagine” is an anthem for global unity and peace. Lennon paints a utopian picture of a world devoid of political borders, religious divisions, and materialistic pursuits. The lyrics invite listeners to envision a harmonious society where humanity coexists without conflict.
This song resonates deeply with me for multiple reasons. Firstly, its deceptively simple melody belies a profound message, making it both accessible and impactful. The piano-driven tune is hauntingly beautiful, creating an atmosphere of tranquility that perfectly complements the lyrics.
Secondly, the thought-provoking nature of the lyrics never fails to spark introspection. It challenges me to question societal norms and contemplate my role in fostering a more inclusive world. The song serves as a poignant reminder of our shared humanity and the potential for positive change.
Lastly, “Imagine” has become a personal anthem of sorts, guiding my worldview and inspiring me to be more empathetic. Whenever I feel disillusioned by global events, this song reignites my hope for a better future and motivates me to take action, however small, towards creating a more peaceful world.
Follow-up questions:
- Has your taste in music changed over time?
- Do you think music can influence people’s behavior?
Sample answer for question 1 (Band 8-9):
Absolutely, my musical preferences have undergone a significant evolution over the years. In my younger days, I was primarily drawn to mainstream pop and whatever was topping the charts. However, as I’ve matured, my tastes have become more eclectic and nuanced. I’ve developed an appreciation for a wide range of genres, from classical to jazz and even some experimental electronic music. This shift reflects my personal growth and expanding horizons. I now find myself seeking out music that challenges me intellectually or resonates with me on a deeper emotional level, rather than just catchy tunes for entertainment.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this part, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to music and songs. Here are some sample questions and answers:
Examiner: How do you think music affects society?
Candidate (Band 8-9 answer): Music plays a pivotal role in shaping society on multiple levels. On a cultural level, it serves as a powerful medium for preserving and transmitting traditions, helping to maintain cultural identity across generations. From a social perspective, music often acts as a catalyst for change, with protest songs and anthems galvanizing movements for civil rights and social justice.
Moreover, music has the unique ability to bridge divides between different communities and cultures, fostering understanding and empathy. In the digital age, music has become even more influential, with global streaming platforms enabling cross-cultural exchanges on an unprecedented scale.
Economically, the music industry contributes significantly to many countries’ GDPs, creating jobs and driving innovation in technology and entertainment. On a personal level, music can impact individual behavior and mental health, with studies showing its potential to reduce stress, improve cognitive function, and even aid in medical treatments.
In essence, music is not just an art form but a multifaceted force that shapes our society’s fabric, influencing everything from personal emotions to global cultural trends.
Examiner: Do you think traditional music is losing its importance in modern society?
Candidate (Band 7-8 answer): While it’s true that modern pop music dominates the mainstream, I don’t believe traditional music is losing its importance entirely. In fact, I’d argue that there’s been a resurgence of interest in traditional forms in recent years.
Many young artists are incorporating elements of traditional music into their contemporary works, creating unique fusion styles that appeal to both older and younger generations. This blend of old and new helps keep traditional music relevant and introduces it to new audiences.
Additionally, there’s a growing appreciation for cultural heritage in many parts of the world. This has led to increased support for traditional music festivals and educational programs aimed at preserving these art forms.
However, it’s important to note that the role of traditional music has evolved. While it may not be as prevalent in everyday life as it once was, it still holds significant cultural and historical value. It continues to play a crucial role in ceremonies, celebrations, and as a means of cultural expression.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To elevate your speaking performance, incorporate these sophisticated words and phrases:
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Resonates with (verb) – /ˈrezəneɪts wɪð/ – to evoke a feeling of shared emotion or belief
Example: “The lyrics of this song really resonate with my personal experiences.” -
Evocative (adjective) – /ɪˈvɒkətɪv/ – bringing strong images, memories, or feelings to mind
Example: “The melody is incredibly evocative, transporting me back to my childhood.” -
Timeless (adjective) – /ˈtaɪmləs/ – not affected by the passage of time or changes in fashion
Example: “Despite being released decades ago, the message of the song remains timeless.” -
Cathartic (adjective) – /kəˈθɑːtɪk/ – providing psychological relief through the expression of strong emotions
Example: “Listening to this song is a cathartic experience for me, helping me process difficult emotions.” -
Profound impact (noun phrase) – /prəˈfaʊnd ˈɪmpækt/ – a deep and significant effect
Example: “This song had a profound impact on my worldview and personal philosophy.”
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing music:
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Practice describing emotions and abstract concepts related to music. This will help you express your thoughts more eloquently.
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Expand your music-related vocabulary. Familiarize yourself with terms describing different genres, instruments, and musical elements.
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Prepare personal anecdotes about your experiences with music. These stories can make your answers more engaging and memorable.
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Think critically about music’s role in society. Being able to discuss music’s broader impact demonstrates higher-level thinking skills.
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Listen to a variety of music genres from different cultures. This will broaden your perspective and give you more to talk about in the test.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about music knowledge, but about describing a traditional event or festival you attended or expressing your thoughts clearly and confidently on any given topic. By following these tips and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss music or any other subject that may come up in your IELTS Speaking test.