- Music
IELTS Speaking Part 1: Sample Questions with Answers
1. Do you like listening to music? Why or why not?
Sample Answer, C1 English Level, Advanced, Band Score 6.5-7.5
Yes, I enjoy listening to music because it has a profound effect on my emotions, helps me relax, and makes me feel more energized. Music also has a way of connecting me with others, especially when I attend live performances.
Yes, I really like listening to music. It makes me feel good, helps me to relax, and gives me more energy. When I go to concerts or gigs, I feel like I’m part of something special.
Undoubtedly, I’m a huge fan of music. I find it to be an amazing source of emotional expression, relaxation, and stimulation. Not only does music bring people together, but it can also transcend language and cultural barriers. I believe that music is an essential aspect of human life, and I cannot imagine living without it.
2. What is your favorite genre of music, and why do you enjoy it?
Sample Answer, C1 English Level, Advanced, Band Score 6.5-7.5
My favorite genre of music is R&B. I love how it combines elements of soul, funk, and hip-hop to create a smooth and soulful sound. The lyrics are often very emotional and relatable, which makes me feel like I can really connect with the music.
I really like R&B music because it has a smooth and soulful sound that combines elements of different genres like soul, funk, and hip-hop. The lyrics are often emotional and relatable, so I feel like I can connect with the songs.
R&B is my preferred genre of music because of its smooth and soulful sound that incorporates various elements from different genres. The emotional and relatable lyrics strike a chord with me, making me feel a strong connection to the music. I appreciate the creativity and artistry that goes into producing R&B music, and I find it to be a powerful form of expression.
3. Is there any genre of music that you dislike? Why?
Sample Answer, C1 English Level, Advanced, Band Score 6.5-7.5
Although I appreciate all types of music, I must admit that heavy metal is not my cup of tea. The aggressive sound and lyrics often make me feel anxious and stressed, which is not the experience I look for in music. I prefer more mellow and soothing sounds that help me relax and unwind.
I don’t really enjoy listening to heavy metal because the loud and fast music makes me feel uneasy. I prefer something calmer that helps me to relax.
Heavy metal music does not appeal to my taste as the intensity and aggression in the sound and lyrics create an unpleasant experience for me. I prefer genres with more soothing and calming sounds that provide a sense of relaxation and inner peace.
4. Have you ever attended a live music concert or festival? Can you describe the experience?
Sample Answer, C1 English Level, Advanced, Band Score 6.5-7.5
Yes, I have attended several live music concerts and festivals, and each experience has been unique and exhilarating. The energy and excitement of being in a large crowd, surrounded by fellow music enthusiasts, and experiencing the music in person is truly unforgettable. The live performances by the artists are often more dynamic and engaging than their recorded versions, and the atmosphere is charged with anticipation and emotion.
I have gone to a few live music concerts and festivals, and they were really amazing experiences. It was so cool to be around so many people who love music, and everyone was really into the performances. Seeing the musicians in person was way better than listening to their recordings, and I loved the energy of the crowd.
I have had the pleasure of attending several live music concerts and festivals, and each one has been an unforgettable experience. The collective energy of the crowd, combined with the raw talent of the artists, creates an atmosphere that is both electric and intimate. The thrill of hearing live music performed is unparalleled, and I have been moved to tears by the emotion and passion of the performers. The feeling of being part of a shared musical experience with thousands of people is simply indescribable.
5. Do you think music is an important part of a culture? Why or why not?
Sample Answer, C1 English Level, Advanced, Band Score 6.5-7.5
Undoubtedly, music is an essential element of culture that not only reflects but also shapes it. It has the power to evoke emotions, communicate messages and connect people across cultural, linguistic and geographic boundaries. Music is an integral part of rituals, ceremonies, and social events, from religious chants and national anthems to weddings and parties. Music also serves as a tool for preserving and transmitting cultural heritage and identity from one generation to another. Therefore, music has a crucial role in enriching and enhancing cultural diversity, social cohesion, and individual well-being.
Music is an important aspect of any culture because it can express emotions, ideas, and beliefs that may be difficult to convey through other forms of communication. It is also a means of bringing people together, whether it’s for a celebration or to share a common interest. Music has been an integral part of cultural practices throughout history, from ancient times to the present day.
Music is not just an entertainment, but a fundamental aspect of human culture that reflects and influences society, politics, and history. It is a universal language that transcends borders, languages, and beliefs, creating a shared experience of human emotion and expression. Music is a cultural treasure that represents the values, beliefs, and traditions of a society, and it has the power to preserve and transmit cultural heritage from generation to generation. Music can also be a powerful tool for social change and political activism, shaping public opinion and inspiring collective action. Therefore, music is a vital part of cultural identity and a force for unity and diversity.
6. Do you think learning to play a musical instrument is beneficial? Why or why not?
Sample Answer, C1 English Level, Advanced, Band Score 6.5-7.5
I strongly believe that learning to play a musical instrument is beneficial in many ways. It enhances one’s cognitive abilities, such as memory and focus, and improves overall mental health. Moreover, it promotes discipline and perseverance, as it requires regular practice and dedication. Learning an instrument also helps in developing creativity and self-expression, providing an outlet for emotions and thoughts. In addition, it can be a social activity, allowing individuals to connect with others who share the same interests.
I am convinced that learning to play a musical instrument can be really good for you. It helps you to remember things better and concentrate more, which is great for your brain. It also makes you more disciplined and persistent, because you need to practice regularly. Playing an instrument can also be a way to express yourself and be creative. You can share your music with others and make new friends who also love music.
In my opinion, learning to play a musical instrument can be immensely advantageous, as it enhances various aspects of one’s life. It has been shown to have a positive impact on cognitive abilities, including memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. Furthermore, it fosters discipline and perseverance, as well as a sense of achievement and self-efficacy. It also allows for artistic expression and can be a therapeutic outlet for emotions and stress. Finally, playing an instrument can facilitate social interaction and community-building, bringing people together through a shared love of music.
7. What's the last song you listened to, and what did you think of it?
Sample Answer, C1 English Level, Advanced, Band Score 6.5-7.5
The last song I listened to was “Levitating” by Dua Lipa. I thought it was a really catchy and upbeat song with a great rhythm. The lyrics were also quite fun and playful, which added to the overall enjoyment of the song.
The most recent song I listened to was “Levitating” by Dua Lipa. I found it really catchy and lively, with great beats that made me want to dance. The lyrics were also fun and entertaining, which made the song even more enjoyable.
My most recent listening experience was with “Levitating” by Dua Lipa. The song features a really infectious beat and an energetic performance that makes it impossible to sit still. The lyrics are well-written and fun, and they really add to the overall appeal of the song. All in all, it’s a really great piece of music that I would recommend to anyone who loves upbeat and fun pop tunes.
8. Do you think music has the power to bring people together? How so?
Sample Answer, C1 English Level, Advanced, Band Score 6.5-7.5
Music is a universal language that has the power to connect people from all walks of life. It brings people together by evoking emotions and creating a sense of community. Whether it’s through attending concerts, playing music together, or simply listening to the same song, music has the ability to break down barriers and create a shared experience that can be enjoyed by everyone.
Music has the ability to bring people together through the feelings and emotions it creates. Whether it’s by listening to the same music or playing music together, it can create a sense of unity and belonging that transcends language and culture.
Music is a unifying force that has the ability to transcend all barriers, be it language, culture, or political views. It has the power to create a sense of community and shared experience, connecting people on a deep emotional level. The emotional impact of music can create a space for understanding and empathy, allowing people to come together and celebrate their shared humanity.
9. Do you prefer listening to music alone or with others? Why?
Sample Answer, C1 English Level, Advanced, Band Score 6.5-7.5
Personally, I prefer listening to music alone because it allows me to fully immerse myself in the music and appreciate all the nuances without any distractions. I find it to be a very personal and meditative experience.
I generally prefer listening to music by myself because I feel like I can concentrate on it better and enjoy it more. It’s a way for me to unwind and relax.
In terms of listening to music, I prefer to be in solitude as I can indulge in the music more and analyze the intricacies of it. I consider it to be a spiritual journey that allows me to delve deeper into my emotions and thoughts.
10. Who is your favorite musician or band? Why do you like them?
Sample Answer, C1 English Level, Advanced, Band Score 6.5-7.5
My favorite musician is Ed Sheeran. I admire his ability to blend different genres of music together and create meaningful lyrics. His songs resonate with me on a personal level, and I appreciate his versatility as a musician.
Ed Sheeran is my favorite musician because he combines different types of music and writes meaningful lyrics. His music speaks to me, and I like that he can perform many different styles of music.
Ed Sheeran is my preferred musician as I appreciate his aptitude to incorporate various musical genres into his work while maintaining his unique style. His songwriting ability is exceptional, and his lyrics possess a profound emotional depth that touches me personally. Furthermore, I admire his versatility as a musician, and his performances are always engaging, regardless of the venue or audience.
11. How do you discover new music? Do you use streaming platforms, radio, or other sources?
Sample Answer, C1 English Level, Advanced, Band Score 6.5-7.5
I usually discover new music through streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube. I browse through playlists curated by these platforms, follow the recommendations based on my listening history, and explore new genres and artists.
I typically find new music by using streaming services such as Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube. I look at the playlists made by these services, check out the suggestions based on my listening habits, and try out different styles and musicians.
My primary method of discovering new music is by using streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube. I delve into playlists created by these services, rely on suggestions based on my listening patterns, and experiment with various genres and artists.
12. Do you think it is important for schools to offer music education? Why or why not?
Sample Answer, C1 English Level, Advanced, Band Score 6.5-7.5
Absolutely, I believe it is crucial for schools to offer music education. Learning music promotes creativity, critical thinking, and self-expression, which are essential skills for success in any field. Moreover, music education enhances students’ cognitive abilities, including memory, language, and spatial reasoning. It also helps students to develop discipline, teamwork, and perseverance, qualities that are essential in personal and professional life.
I strongly believe that schools should provide music education to students. Music education is very beneficial as it fosters creativity, problem-solving skills, and self-confidence. Additionally, learning music has been shown to improve cognitive functions such as memory and spatial reasoning. It also promotes social skills, teamwork, and discipline.
Without a doubt, it is of utmost importance that schools offer music education to students. Music education provides a wide range of benefits that go beyond learning music. It is an effective tool for developing cognitive skills, such as memory, language, and critical thinking. Moreover, music education promotes self-expression, creativity, and emotional intelligence. It also teaches students the value of teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. Therefore, music education is essential in creating well-rounded individuals who are prepared for success in their personal and professional lives.
13. How has technology changed the way we listen to and consume music?
Sample Answer, C1 English Level, Advanced, Band Score 6.5-7.5
Technology has revolutionized the way we listen to and consume music, with advancements in digital music production and distribution, as well as the rise of streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music. These changes have made music more accessible and convenient for consumers, and have also created new opportunities for artists to reach wider audiences.
With the advent of technology, the way we listen to and consume music has undergone a significant transformation. There are now more digital tools and platforms available for creating, distributing, and consuming music than ever before. The emergence of music streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music has made it easier and more affordable for people to access and enjoy music.
The advent of technology has brought about a seismic shift in the way we create, distribute, and consume music. From the use of digital audio workstations to the rise of streaming services, technology has opened up new frontiers in music production and distribution, creating new opportunities for both artists and consumers. With the ability to instantly access and stream music from anywhere, anytime, technology has made music a ubiquitous and integral part of modern life.
