Playing an Instrument

person playing guitar
Type: Vocabulary
Originally published on October 2, 2019 and last updated on August 7, 2023

The topic of playing an instrument provides English learners with an engaging and enriching conversation topic that can greatly enhance their language skills. Discussing playing instruments allows learners to practice expressing their musical preferences, describing their experiences with music and discussing different genres and styles. It also exposes them to a wide range of vocabulary related to music theory, instruments and performance.

Additionally, discussing playing an instrument encourages learners to share personal stories and opinions, fostering their fluency and conversational abilities. Exploring this topic can be both enjoyable and beneficial for English learners seeking to improve their language proficiency.

Instructions:
Go through the vocabulary below with your students and ask them to try and use this vocabaulry where possible when discussing the different conversation questions.

About Playing An Instrument

Playing a musical instrument is a wonderful activity that many people enjoy. When you play an instrument, you create beautiful sounds by using your hands or other parts of your body. It could be a guitar, piano, or drums, among others. Playing an instrument allows you to express yourself and brings joy. You can learn by practicing and taking lessons. It’s a great way to have fun and make music that makes people happy.

Useful Vocabulary

Try and use the following vocabulary when answering the question. Click to look up the definition in the dictionary

  • instrument (noun)
  • musical (adjective)
  • play (verb)
  • expert (adjective)
  • practice (verb)
  • level (noun)

Conversation Questions

My Image
  • Can you play an instrument? Which one?
  • Did you use to play an instrument when you were younger?
  • What instrument do you think is the most fun to play?
  • What instrument do you think is the most difficult to play?
  • If you could be an expert at playing any musical instrument, what would you play?
  • Should children be required to learn to play a musical instrument in school?
  • Do you think it's important to learn to play an instrument?
  • Do you know anyone who plays an instrument?
  • What do you think is the hardest part about learning to play an instrument?
  • Does playing an instrument make your memory and concentration skills better?
Gregory
This conversation topic was prepared by Gregory

Gregory is a qualified TEFL teacher who has been teaching English as a Foreign Language (ESL) for over a decade. He has taught in-person classes in Spain and to English learners around the world online.