Question 4 Model Answer: Article (Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE English Language): Revision Note

You are a journalist writing an article for a monthly music magazine. You were at the gig in the park, and at the party afterwards, and interviewed band members and some of their audience.

Write your magazine article.

In your magazine article, you should:

• explain who the band are, their style, and the history of the band

• describe the concert, audience reaction and the aftershow party

• introduce Stanley and consider how he fits in with the band

Base your article on what you have read in Text C, but be careful to use your own words. Address each of the three bullet points.

Begin your article: "This month's featured concert..."

Write about 250 to 300 words.

Up to 10 marks are available for the content of your answer and up to 10 marks for the quality of your writing.

[20]

Answer

REVIEW: The Nightblooming Jazzmen Bloom in Sutton Park

This month's featured concert series at Sutton Park concluded with a charming performance by The Nightblooming Jazzmen. Aside from their drummer, ‘Old Stanley’, the group consists of retired musicians who share an obvious, comfortable camaraderie. Dressed in bow ties and moustaches, they exude a retro vibe that perfectly suits their shift towards jazz and swing — a strategic move to attract larger audiences that has clearly paid off. There are no gimmicks or backing tracks here, only a stripped-back, honest sound that the crowd absolutely lapped up.

The setting, a graffiti-covered bandstand, provided a gritty contrast to the music, yet the atmosphere was electric. The predominantly older crowd remained fiercely loyal, their appreciation evident as the Jazzmen’s talent won over the park. Post-concert, the mood stayed buoyant over crackers and dips, with devoted fans like Ruth, Nancy, and Betty reminiscing about the band's history and their enduring love for the genre.

At the after-party, I caught up with ‘Old Stanley’ (Nathanial) to see how he adapts to the group. Though decades younger, his false moustache and bleached eyebrows reveal a dedicated, endearing effort to blend in. While his social graces lack polish — he spoke enthusiastically with his mouth full — his musical pedigree is undeniable. Having learned from his father, a jazz veteran, Nathanial clearly feels at home. His connection with the band, particularly Hal, is genuine. He is not just a drummer, but a welcome, energetic addition to this unique ensemble.

[20]

Commentary

• The answer demonstrates the skill of selecting by fitting comfortably within the word limit

• It uses an engaging, journalistic style suitable for a magazine

• It expands on original ideas to show evaluation

• The response flows logically, being guided by the three bullet points