As an IELTS instructor with over 20 years of experience, I often get asked about the “music” question in the IELTS Speaking test. Many students wonder how to give an impressive answer, particularly one that can help them achieve a Band 7 or higher. This article will delve into the intricacies of this seemingly simple question, providing you with strategies and insights to confidently express your musical preferences and excel in your IELTS Speaking test.
Why Music Matters in IELTS Speaking
The “What kind of music do you like?” question isn’t just about your taste in music. It’s a fantastic opportunity for the examiner to assess your:
- Vocabulary range: Can you go beyond basic words like “good” and “interesting” to describe music?
- Fluency and coherence: Can you speak smoothly and link your ideas logically?
- Grammatical accuracy: Can you use a variety of grammatical structures accurately?
- Pronunciation: Can you be understood clearly and use intonation to sound natural?
Crafting Your Answer: From Basic to Band 7
Many candidates make the mistake of giving short, generic answers. To achieve a Band 7, you need to showcase depth and detail in your response.
1. Moving Beyond Basic Answers
Instead of this: “I like pop music.”
Try this: “I’m really drawn to pop music, especially artists who write their own lyrics and experiment with different sounds.”
2. Expanding Your Vocabulary
Use rich vocabulary to describe:
- Genres: Instead of just “rock”, say “classic rock,” “alternative rock,” or “indie rock.”
- Emotions: Music can evoke feelings of “joy,” “nostalgia,” “excitement,” or “melancholy.”
- Musical elements: Talk about “catchy melodies,” “complex harmonies,” “driving rhythms,” or “powerful vocals.”
3. Adding Reasons and Examples
Don’t just state your preferences; explain them!
- Personal connection: “I grew up listening to classical music with my grandmother, so it always brings back fond memories.”
- Specific artists: “I’m a big fan of Ed Sheeran because I connect with his honest and relatable lyrics.”
- Impact on you: “Upbeat music instantly improves my mood and motivates me to work out.”
4. Structuring Your Response
A well-structured answer demonstrates coherence. Consider this framework:
- State your preference: “I’m particularly fond of…”
- Provide reasons: “This is because…” / “One reason is…”
- Give an example: “For instance…” / “A good example is…”
- Expand further (optional): “Moreover…” / “Another genre I enjoy is…”
Example Band 7 Answer
“I’m quite eclectic when it comes to music, but I’m particularly drawn to indie folk. I find the combination of acoustic instruments, heartfelt lyrics, and often melancholic melodies deeply moving. For instance, I’m a huge fan of Bon Iver. Their music has this raw, atmospheric quality that I find incredibly evocative. It’s perfect for listening to while reflecting or just unwinding after a long day.”
Top Tips for Success
- Be authentic: Talk about music you genuinely enjoy.
- Practice regularly: Speak about your musical preferences aloud to build fluency.
- Record yourself: Listen back to identify areas for improvement.
- Seek feedback: Ask a teacher or language partner for their input.
Remember, confidence is key! By expressing your musical taste with passion and detail, you’ll impress the examiner and be well on your way to achieving a Band 7 or higher in your IELTS Speaking test.