IELTS Speaking Task 2: Describe a friend who is good at music/singing
IELTS Speaking Task 2 & 3 | Sample Answers & Band 8+ Vocabulary
Describe a friend of yours who is good at music/singing.
- Who he/she is
- When/where you listen to his/her music/singing
- What kind of music/songs he/she is good at
- Explain how you feel when listening to his/her music/singing
Model Answer - Vocal Talent
I would like to talk about a dear friend of mine named Sarah, who is an incredibly talented vocalist. We have known each other since high school, and her passion for music has always been a core part of her identity.
I usually get the chance to hear her sing during our occasional gatherings at her house or during small community festivals where she often performs. Recently, she has also started sharing vocal covers on her YouTube channel, so I find myself tuning in to her performances almost every week from the comfort of my home.
Sarah is exceptionally good at soulful ballads and contemporary pop. She has a very unique, velvety tone that makes every song sound deeply emotional. What impresses me most is her vocal control; she can transition from soft whispers to powerful high notes with remarkable ease, often leaving the audience in complete silence.
Whenever I listen to her sing, I feel a sense of inner peace and tranquility. Her voice acts as a perfect stress-reliever for me. It’s truly moving to see how she pours her heart into every lyric, and it often gives me goosebumps. I feel quite proud to have such a gifted friend who can touch people's souls through her voice.
Model Answer - Instrumental Talent
One person who immediately comes to mind is my childhood friend, Leo. He is a virtuoso on the acoustic guitar and has a natural knack for creating beautiful melodies out of thin air.
I typically listen to him play when we hang out at his studio or during our summer camping trips. There is something truly special about sitting around a campfire under the stars while Leo plays some soft, melodic tunes in the background. He is the life of every party because of his musical skills.
Leo is primarily skilled in blues and classical guitar. He is a master of fingerpicking techniques and often performs complex solos that look effortless but are actually quite difficult to master. He is also great at improvisation; you can give him a random theme, and he will compose a beautiful piece of music on the spot.
Listening to Leo play makes me feel incredibly nostalgic and relaxed. His music has a way of helping me switch off from the digital world and daily chores. I feel a deep sense of admiration for his unwavering commitment to his craft. It’s inspiring to see someone so dedicated to mastering an instrument, and his music always leaves me feeling refreshed and positive.
🔵 Part 3: Follow-Up Questions
I believe it is a combination of biological predisposition and early exposure. Some people have a natural "ear" for music, but without rigorous practice and a supportive environment, that talent rarely reaches its full potential.
Yes, I strongly believe so. Music helps with brain development and improves memory and focus. It also provides a healthy emotional outlet for students, helping them manage stress while learning the value of discipline and teamwork.
The internet has democratized music. In the past, you needed a record label to be heard, but now anyone can upload their music to platforms like Spotify or TikTok. However, it has also made the industry very crowded, making it harder for artists to stand out.
Personally, I think live performances are superior because of the electric atmosphere. There is a raw energy and a connection between the artist and the crowd that a studio recording simply cannot capture or replicate.
Absolutely. Music has a direct impact on our dopamine levels. Upbeat music can make us feel energetic and happy, while slow, minor-key melodies can help us process sadness or find a sense of calmness during stressful times.
Traditional music often carries a sense of cultural identity and nostalgia. It connects people to their roots and history. In a fast-changing world, traditional sounds provide a sense of stability and timelessness that modern pop often lacks.
Vocabulary for Band 8/9
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Virtuoso | A person highly skilled in music |
| Vocal covers | New versions of existing songs |
| Switch off | To stop thinking about work or problems |
| Improvisation | Creating music spontaneously |
| Rigorous practice | Very strict and difficult training |
| Democratized | Made accessible to everyone |