Music is an essential part of our daily lives. It is not only a form of entertainment or relaxation after stressful hours, but it also helps us improve our English vocabulary and pronunciation. Given how relatable this topic is, Music frequently appears in IELTS Speaking and Writing tasks.
In this guide, IDP has organized IELTS vocabulary on the topic of Music into smaller categories to help you study logically and apply vocabulary effectively in your responses. These words and phrases will support stronger arguments, examples, and a higher overall band score.
1. IELTS Vocabulary for Types of Music
Vocabulary | Meaning |
|---|---|
Acoustic | Music created using instruments without electronic amplification |
Jazz | A genre with strong rhythms and improvisation |
Orchestra | Symphonic music with many instruments |
Symphony | A complex musical composition for an orchestra |
Classical | Traditional Western art music |
Opera | Dramatic vocal performance with orchestral accompaniment |
Dance | Music designed for dancing |
Electronic | Music using digital instruments |
Lo-fi | Music with intentional technical imperfections |
Epic music | Instrumental soundtrack-style music |
Hymn | Religious song or chant |
Heavy metal | Loud, aggressive rock music |
R and B (Rhythm and Blues) | A genre combining jazz, blues, and gospel |
Theme song | Introductory or background music for shows or films |
National anthem | The official song of a country |
2. IELTS Vocabulary for Musical Instruments
Keyboard Instruments
Vocabulary | Meaning |
|---|---|
Accordion | A portable keyboard instrument with bellows |
Electronic keyboard | Digital keyboard instrument |
Organ | Large keyboard instrument with pipes |
Piano | Stringed keyboard instrument |
Brass Instruments
Vocabulary | Meaning |
|---|---|
Horn | A brass wind instrument |
Trombone | A slide-based brass instrument |
Trumpet | A high-pitched brass instrument |
Tuba | The largest and lowest-pitched brass instrument |
Woodwind Instruments
Vocabulary | Meaning |
|---|---|
Clarinet | Single-reed woodwind instrument |
Flute | A high-pitched wind instrument |
Harmonica | A small mouth-blown reed instrument |
Recorder | A flute-like wind instrument |
Saxophone | A brass-colored woodwind instrument |
Percussion Instruments
Vocabulary | Meaning |
|---|---|
Bass drum | A large, low-sounding drum |
Drum kit | A set of drums and cymbals |
Gong | A large metallic disc struck to produce sound |
Tambourine | A small drum with jingles |
String Instruments
Vocabulary | Meaning |
|---|---|
Cello | A low-pitched string instrument |
Harp | A large stringed instrument with vertical strings |
Violin | A high-pitched string instrument |
Zither | A traditional stringed instrument |
Ukulele | A small guitar-like instrument from Hawaii |
3. Music Equipment Vocabulary
Vocabulary | Meaning |
|---|---|
Amp | Short for amplifier, a sound booster |
Record player | A device for playing vinyl records |
Headphones | Audio device worn over the ears |
Music stand | A stand to hold sheet music |
Stereo system | A high-quality sound system |
4. Vocabulary for Musicians and Bands
Vocabulary | Meaning |
|---|---|
Saxophonist | A person who plays the saxophone |
Soprano | A high-pitched female voice |
Mezzo soprano | A mid-range female voice |
Baritone | A mid-range male voice |
Bass | A low-pitched male voice |
Conductor | The leader of an orchestra or band |
Brass band | A group using brass instruments |
Concert band | A large instrumental group for performances |
String quartet | A four-person group playing string instruments |
5. Vocabulary to Describe Music
Vocabulary | Meaning |
|---|---|
Clef | A musical symbol on a staff |
Chord | A group of notes played together |
Dynamics | Volume levels in music |
Meter | Rhythmic structure of a piece |
Prelude | An introductory musical piece |
Modulation | Change of key within music |
Key signature | The set of sharps or flats defining a key |
Ornamentation | Decorative musical notes |
Inspirational | Emotionally uplifting or motivating |
Adagio | Slow tempo |
Tuneful | Melodious and pleasant to listen to |
6. Common Collocations for the Topic of Music
Collocation | Meaning |
|---|---|
A catchy tune | A memorable melody |
Sing out of tune | To sing off-key |
Tone-deaf | Unable to distinguish musical notes |
Go on tour | Travel to perform music in different places |
A massive hit | A highly popular song |
Sing along to | Sing together with a song |
Taste in music | Personal music preference |
Boost my energy | Energize or motivate oneself |
Capture an audience | Attract listeners or viewers |
Gravitate towards something | Be naturally drawn to something |
Vividly remember | Recall something clearly |
7. Idioms About Music
Idiom | Meaning |
|---|---|
Part and parcel of something | An essential component |
Be into something | Have a strong interest in something |
Ring a bell | Sound familiar |
Beat the drum for something | Advocate for something |
Blow the whistle | Report wrongdoing |
Blow your own trumpet | Brag about yourself |
Change one’s tune | Change opinion or attitude |
For a song | At a very low price |
Make a song and dance about something | Exaggerate or overdramatize |
Hit the right note | Say or do something appropriate |
It’s not over till the fat lady sings | Nothing is certain until the end |
8. Sample Speaking Answers – Topic: Music
Question: Do you like listening to music?
Answer: Yes, absolutely. I think everyone enjoys music. Since I was a child, my mom sang lullabies to me, and over time, I became a big fan of K-pop and US-UK pop. I’ve even attended concerts of Big Bang and Demi Lovato. These days, I start my day with catchy and uplifting songs to energize myself.
Question: Did you learn to play a musical instrument as a child?
Answer: Yes, I learned piano at around six or seven years old. Sadly, I was tone-deaf by nature and couldn’t keep up with lessons. Now, I only sing in karaoke with friends where I feel confident and free.
Question: What types of music do you like to listen to?
Answer: I prefer indie and underground music because it reflects the artists’ unique styles. Recently, I have also developed a love for old songs from the 60s to 90s. They create a nostalgic, peaceful atmosphere and help me think clearly.
Final Thoughts
This is a complete collection of IELTS vocabulary for the Music topic. Besides studying vocabulary, you can also improve your English through songs or movies with English subtitles. For more vocabulary themes, check out other resources available on IDP's website.
Additionally, explore our full IELTS preparation materials to get familiar with the test format and build confidence. Resources include Masterclass webinars, preparation courses, and expert exam tips.
When you are ready, register for the IELTS test with IDP today!