ESL WORKSHEET - Music (I)

LESSON PLAN FOR ENGLISH TEACHERS

MUSIC

LinguaHouse

May 8, 2025

Level: Upper-Intermediate (B2-C1)
Type of language: General English
Tags: Sound and Music; Describing Music; Musical Instruments; Vocabulary Lesson; Speaking; 13-15 Years Old; 16-18 Years Old; 18+ Years Old
Publication date: 05/08/2025

This refreshed worksheet covers vocabulary related to music, including English words for musical instruments, adjectives and expressions for describing music as well as common idioms related to music. The lesson plan includes speaking activities as well as a listening exercise in which the students describe six music samples.

• CLICK HERE to download the student’s worksheet in American English.
• CLICK HERE to download the teacher’s lesson plan in American English.
• CLICK HERE to download/listen to the audio in American English.
• CLICK HERE to download the student’s worksheet in British English.
• CLICK HERE to download the teacher’s lesson plan in British English.
• CLICK HERE to download/listen to the audio in British English.
• CLICK HERE to download/listen to the audio of the activity 3.

AUDIO TRANSCRIPT

Host: Welcome, everyone, to today’s podcast, where we’re diving into the incredible world of music – its instruments, its styles, and the way it shapes our lives. To help us explore this topic, I’m joined by Alex, a professional musician, and Dana, a music therapist. Thank you both for being here.
Alex: Thanks for having us. Music has always been my passion, so I’m excited to talk about it.
Dana: Same here. Music plays such a powerful role in our mental and emotional well-being, and I’m thrilled to share some insights.
Host: Great! Let’s start with instruments. Alex, as a musician, can you tell us about the diversity of instruments you’ve played?
Alex: Absolutely. My favorite is the violin – it’s like an extension of my soul. It’s expressive and versatile, perfect for classical and contemporary music alike. Then there’s the guitar. I play both acoustic and electric, and each brings a different energy. The acoustic guitar feels intimate, while the electric is dynamic and electrifying. I’ve also dabbled with the piano, which I think of as the ultimate storytelling instrument. Its range is just incredible. And, of course, the drums – the heartbeat of any band.
Dana: Oh, I love the way you describe instruments, Alex. As a music therapist, I’ve seen how different instruments affect people. For example, the flute’s light, airy sound can be calming, while percussion instruments like the djembe drum can energize and ground a person. It’s fascinating.
Host: Fascinating indeed! Now, let’s talk about describing music. How do you describe the genres you work with?
Alex: Sure. For classical music, I’d say it’s elegant, timeless, and sophisticated. Jazz, on the other hand, is smooth and improvisational – it’s like a conversation between musicians. Rock music is bold, loud, and rebellious. And then there’s pop – catchy, vibrant, and often upbeat. Each genre has its own personality.
Dana: And music evokes emotions, too. Think about melancholic ballads – they can be hauntingly beautiful, tugging at your heartstrings. Or upbeat dance music that’s just infectious – you can’t help but tap your feet. It’s all about connecting with emotions.
Host: Speaking of emotions, Dana, how does music therapy work in that regard?
Dana: Well, music helps people express what words can’t. For example, someone dealing with grief might find solace in playing or listening to slow, somber pieces. Conversely, someone struggling with low energy might benefit from uplifting, rhythmic music. It’s all about harnessing music’s emotional power.
Host: That’s beautiful. Alex, do you have any favorite idioms related to music?
Alex: Oh, definitely. One of my favorites is "music to my ears", which means something you’re delighted to hear. Another is "face the music", meaning to confront consequences. And then there’s "blow your own trumpet", which is about bragging or self-promotion. Idioms like these show how deeply embedded music is in our culture.
Host: That’s a great point. Music really is everywhere. Before we wrap up, let’s touch on its societal impact. What are your thoughts?
Dana: Music brings people together. It’s universal. Whether it’s a community choir or a massive festival, music fosters connection.
Alex: Agreed. It’s also a form of protest and expression. Think of the anthems during civil rights movements or songs that call for change. Music has the power to inspire and unite.
Host: Well said. Music is indeed a universal language. Thank you both for sharing your perspectives. And to our listeners, take a moment today to listen to a song that moves you. Until next time!

Adapted from: https://www.linguahouse.com/esl-lesson-plans/general-english/music. Accessed on June 30, 2025. LinguaHouse.com © 2008–2025. All rights reserved.