(Update 2026) IELTS Speaking Part 1 Topic Music

IELTS Speaking Part 1 Topic Music

IELTS Speaking Part 1 Topic Music
IELTS Speaking Part 1 Topic Music
IELTS Speaking Part 1 topic Music common questions and sample answers
IELTS Speaking Part 1 – Topic Music – Common questions, sample answers and Band 7+ vocabulary

1. Do you prefer sad or happy music?

It really depends on my mood, but most of the time I prefer happy music. It gives me a little energy boost, especially when I’m tired or not in the mood to study. But if I’m feeling a bit emotional, sad sounds can be quite comforting as well.

2. Does happy music make you feel more excited?

Yes, definitely. Happy music can change my mood almost instantly. For example, if I play a cheerful song in the morning, I feel more awake and ready to start the day.

3. Have you taken any music classes?

Yes, I took some basic music classes when I was younger, but to be honest, I wasn’t very talented. I learned a little bit about singing and rhythm, but I never became seriously good at it. Still, it was fun experience.

4. Do you listen to music while doing other things?

Yes, all the time. I often put on music when I am walking, cleaning my room or doing something that doesn’t require much concentration. It makes boring tasks feel less boring.

Word / PhraseCEFRTypeDefinitionExample Sentence
depends on my moodB2PhraseUsed to express that one’s preference or behaviour changes according to how one feels at the timeWhether I listen to sad or happy music really depends on my mood.
energy boostB2CollocationA sudden increase in energy, motivation, or alertnessListening to upbeat music in the morning gives me an energy boost before work.
not in the mood toB2PhraseNot feeling like doing something; lacking the desire or motivation for a particular activityOn days when I’m not in the mood to study, cheerful music helps me get started.
comfortingB2AdjectiveMaking someone feel less worried, unhappy, or upset; providing emotional reassuranceSad, slow music can be surprisingly comforting when you are feeling emotional.
almost instantlyB2PhraseAlmost immediately; within a very short amount of timeHappy music can lift your spirits almost instantly.
cheerfulB2AdjectiveNoticeably happy and optimistic; having or expressing a lively and positive moodShe put on a cheerful playlist to lift her spirits before her morning jog.
talentedB2AdjectiveHaving a natural ability or exceptional skill in a particular areaHe was a naturally talented musician who could play three instruments by age ten.
rhythmB2NounA regular, repeated pattern of sounds or beats that forms the basis of musicLearning basic rhythm and timing is essential when you first start music lessons.
put on musicB2Phrasal verbTo start playing a piece of music, usually using a speaker, phone, or headphonesI always put on music when I clean my room to make the chore more enjoyable.
require much concentrationB2CollocationTo need a high level of mental focus or attention in order to complete wellWalking or tidying up are tasks that don’t require much concentration.

1. Do you prefer sad or happy music?

Well, it’s a bit hard to choose between the happy and sad music because it really depends on my mood and the situation.
For example, at a wedding or any celebratory events, I mean, I definitely wouldn’t choose sad music. That would just bring everyone down.
But if I’m feeling really low, I might turn to happy music to lift my spirits, or sometimes I do the opposite and listen to some sad music just to give myself some space and reflect the signal that I need some time alone.

2. Does happy music make you feel more excited?

Yeah, I think so. I wouldn’t just call it happy music specifically, but any music with a strong rhythm really gets me more excited. You know, like when you are at karaoke or with your friends, a catchy song can instantly lift your mood.
I think that kind of music is just more engaging. It pulls you in, gets you more excited, and really immerses you.
So yeah, I think happy music often has that strong rhythmic quality that just draws you in.

1. Do you prefer sad or happy music?

To be honest, I don’t have a strong preference. It really depends on my mood at the time. For example, when I’m feeling happy, energetic, or working out, I definitely prefer upbeat music. But when l’m feeling a bit down or tired, I actually prefer sad music because it makes me feel like someone really gets me. So, for me, it’s not about which genre is better-it’s about finding the music that fits how I feel in that moment.

2. Does happy music make you feel more excited?

Yeah, l’d say so. Happy music always makes me feel more motivated and alive. For example, when I’m working out, happy music just gets me more pumped up. I remember last week, I was feeling pretty lazy after studying and didn’t want to go for a run. But then I put on my running playlist-full of upbeat pop songs— and within 30 seconds, I was already in a better mood and decided to go.

Sample Answers 4

1. What music do you like?

I love every type of music that is pleasing to the ear. Actually, it can be light music, powerful ballads and the one with fast rhythm, you name it. Listening to music is like the thing I do every day, which always puts me in a good mood.

2. What music do you dislike?

Well, perhaps rock and roll is the one that I don’t like so much. Don’t get me wrong! I’m not saying it’s not good. The point is, I just lack the ability to appreciate it. And to be honest with you, feeling the strong beat after work even sets my nerves on edge.

3. Do you often listen to one type of music?

No, I’d like different kinds of music after work, actually. If I’m doing the aerobic exercise, I definitely choose the pop music with fast tempo. On the other hand, before I go bed, I’m gonna listen to some soothing music.

4. What music do your friends like? Do you enjoy the same type of music?

I really have a thing for pop music and the same goes for most of my friends. By the way, some of them are crazy about rap music, which I had no special feelings about. Things changed after I had watched the live performance with my friends. It was awesome and I was totally taken by that.

5. What’s the most popular type of music where you live?

Well, nowadays the music that wins people’s heart is more or less the same in different regions because of the Internet and the hit TV shows you know. The music online or the soundtrack itself is just like the brainworm. Then many people can hum quietly to themselves.

6. Which singer or musician would you like to see in person?

l look forward to seeing Dan Truong in the future coz I’ve been a big fan of him since his debut. He is really charismatic, and down-to-earth in the interview. I’m gonna be psyched to meet him in person.

Vocabulary

VocabularyMeaningExample
pleasing (adj) /ˈpliː.zɪŋ/giving a feeling of satisfaction or enjoymenta pleasing performance
rhythm (noun) /ˈrɪð.əm/a strong pattern of sounds, words, or musical notes that is used in music, poetry, and dancingHe beat out a jazz rhythm on the drums.
beat (noun) /biːt/ the main rhythm of a piece of music.loud music with a repetitive beat
tempo (noun) /ˈtempəʊ/the speed of a piece of music

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Credits

Image : Photo by Mohammad Metri on Unsplash

Vocabulary: Cambridge Dictionary

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