Paul Holmes -
University
English Professor

Free Materials For ESL Teachers and Learners

“Classical music” ESL Discussion Questions

1. Can you name some composers of classical music?
2. What do you know about Mozart?
3. Why do some people like listening to classical music, while other people don’t?
4. What instruments are used to make classical music?
5. How long have people been making classical music?
6. Who was the most important composer in history?
7. Do you like classical music? Why?
8. What is the difference between a symphony and an opera?
9. Are there any famous female composers of classical music? If so, who are they and what did they write?
10. What is the difference between a symphony and a concerto?
11. What is the difference between a violin and a cello?
12. What are some famous pieces of classical music?
13. What exactly is “classical music”?
14. What is the difference between classical and pop music?
15. Does classical music have a long history?
16. Can you name any famous musicians who played classical music?
17. Why do people listen to classical music?
18. How does music reflect the culture of a place?
19. What instruments are used in a symphony orchestra?
20. Why do you like listening to classical music?
21. Can you tell me more about Wagner and his music?
22. What is a symphony orchestra?
23. Who are the most popular classical composers?
24. What is the role of classical music in our daily lives?
25. What is the best way to learn about classical music?
26. What is the difference between a pianist and an organist?
27. Why is music so important to people’s lives?
28. Can anyone be a composer? Or do you need to be born into a family of musicians to succeed?
29. Who was Beethoven, and why was he important?
30. What instruments do they use in an orchestra?
31. How is it different from other types of music?
32. How many different composers of classical music do you know about?