IELTS Writing Task 2 #1
Join my IELTS telegram channel
Tip: In agree/disagree essays, your goal should be to write persuasively. In this case it is better to pick one side and make a strong case for it. You do not necessarily need to agree with what you write.
Write about the following topic:
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Some people say it is important to preserve traditional forms of music.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement.
Over the past 100 years, the music charts in many countries have come to be dominated by modern styles of music at the expense of traditional music. In my opinion preserving these traditional styles is essential as they embody the culture and history of a country while also providing many jobs.
The most successful countries of the modern world have a strong sense of national identity. Music is often an important feature of this identity which can be seen in the association of traditional instruments with countries such as the balalaika and Russia or the sitar and India. The sight and sounds of these instruments, along with traditional dances, evoke strong emotions about a nation. This helps these countries to maintain a sense of patriotism in their citizens and a desire for tourists to visit.
Further, the traditional music industry provides a livelihood for many people. This is not limited to the musicians who perform this music, but involves many people including the craftsmen who make the instruments as well as those that record the music or promote traditional music events and releases. If traditional music was to disappear, more jobs would be needed in other sectors to compensate for these positions. While traditional arts may require some subsidising by the government to remain viable, replacing these jobs may require greater subsidies and investment.
In conclusion, preserving traditional music is essential in maintaining a strong national identity. While it may cost a country to subsidise the employment of people working as musicians or in associated jobs, the non-financial rewards are likely to justify this.
(264 words)
Useful Language
have come to be dominated – have become dominated over time
at the expense of – to succeed while something else fails as a result
to embody – to represent
to evoke strong emotions – to create strong feelings in people
to compensate for – to provide something instead of something else
to subsidise – to provide part of the money for something to encourage it to happen
to remain viable – to be something that can happen
to justify something – to provide a good reason for something
Photo by Nishant Aneja from Pexels
