IELTS Reading Practice: Traditional Music in a Globalized World – Sample Test with Answers

Traditional music instruments and modern technology representing globalization

As we delve into How traditional music education promotes creativity, let’s explore this fascinating IELTS Reading test that examines the role of traditional music in our modern world.

Passage 1: The Evolution of Traditional Music

In recent decades, traditional music has undergone significant transformation as it adapts to an increasingly interconnected world. While some fear that globalization threatens the authenticity of traditional music, others argue that it has created unprecedented opportunities for cultural preservation and exchange. The role of music education in cultural preservation has become increasingly important in this context.

Traditional music forms have demonstrated remarkable resilience, evolving while maintaining their core cultural significance. Modern technology has enabled musicians to record, preserve, and share traditional music with global audiences. This technological integration has led to innovative fusion genres that blend traditional elements with contemporary sounds.

Questions 1-5

Do the following statements agree with the information given in the passage? Write
TRUE if the statement agrees with the information
FALSE if the statement contradicts the information
NOT GIVEN if there is no information on this

1. Globalization poses both threats and opportunities for traditional music.
2. Traditional music has remained completely unchanged in modern times.
3. Technology has helped preserve traditional music forms.
4. All traditional musicians oppose modern musical influences.
5. Traditional music is more popular than modern music globally.

Traditional musicians recording music using modern equipment

Passage 2: Traditional Music in Education

How traditional instruments are used in music classes has evolved significantly. Educational institutions worldwide are incorporating traditional music into their curricula, recognizing its value in cultural education and personal development. This integration helps students understand their heritage while developing musical skills.

The role of folk music in teaching national history remains crucial. Students learn not just about musical techniques but also about historical events, social movements, and cultural values embedded in traditional songs.

Questions 6-10

Complete the sentences below with NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS from the passage.

6. Traditional music helps students understand their ___.
7. Folk music contains information about ___ and cultural values.
8. Educational institutions are adding traditional music to their ___.
9. Students learn both ___ and historical context through traditional music.
10. Traditional music education contributes to ___ development.

Passage 3: Global Impact and Future Prospects

The influence of traditional music extends beyond cultural boundaries, creating new forms of artistic expression. The impact of traditional storytelling on modern education shows how ancient practices remain relevant in contemporary settings.

Questions 11-15

Choose the correct letter, A, B, C, or D.

11. Traditional music in the modern world:
    A) Remains completely isolated
    B) Has disappeared entirely
    C) Creates new forms of expression
    D) Only exists in museums

12. The relationship between traditional and modern music is:
    A) Always antagonistic
    B) Mutually beneficial
    C) Non-existent
    D) Purely commercial

(Questions 13-15 continue in similar format…)

Answer Key

1. TRUE
2. FALSE
3. TRUE
4. NOT GIVEN
5. NOT GIVEN
6. heritage
7. historical events
8. curricula
9. musical techniques
10. personal
11. C
12. B
    (Remaining answers…)

Note: This sample test demonstrates how traditional music adapts and thrives in our globalized world while maintaining its cultural significance.