Class 9 English - CBSE
Prose: The Sound of Music
Class 9 CBSE English chapter 'The Sound of Music' is divided into two inspiring parts. Part I tells the remarkable story of Evelyn Glennie, a deaf percussionist who conquered her hearing disability to become a multi-percussionist of global renown by feeling the music through her body. Part II chronicles the life and musical journey of Ustad Bismillah Khan, the legendary shehnai maestro who brought the instrument to the classical stage and was awarded the Bharat Ratna. For board and school exams, this chapter matters because it teaches core values of perseverance, dedication, and overcoming seemingly insurmountable odds.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Deafness as a Challenge Overcome
Evelyn Glennie started losing her hearing by age eight, but instead of giving up, she trained her body and mind to sense vibrations, allowing her to hear music through different parts of her body.
Perseverance and Hard Work
Both Evelyn Glennie and Ustad Bismillah Khan demonstrate that immense hard work, passion, and single-minded dedication are essential to achieve extraordinary success in any field.
Origin of the Shehnai
The shehnai gets its name from a combination of 'pungi' (a reed instrument banned by Aurangzeb for its shrill sound) and 'barber' (naai) who improved its tonal quality, played first in the Shah's chamber.
Patriotism and Cultural Roots
Ustad Bismillah Khan's deep love for India, especially his hometown Benares and the river Ganga, reflects that true art is deeply connected to one's cultural heritage and love for the motherland.
Breaking Stereotypes
Evelyn shattered the myth that a hearing-impaired person cannot pursue a career in music, inspiring millions to look beyond physical limitations.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In CBSE Class 9 English exams, this chapter typically carries 4 to 6 marks. Questions usually include short-answer questions testing character traits, extract-based questions from the text, and long-answer questions focusing on the central theme of overcoming adversity.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Evelyn Glennie listen to music despite being deaf?
Evelyn did not hear music through her ears; rather, she sensed the notes through different parts of her body, feeling vibrations in her legs, feet, and even her fingertips.
Why did Emperor Aurangzeb ban the playing of the pungi?
Aurangzeb banned the playing of the pungi in the royal residence because it had a shrill and unpleasant sound.
Why did Bismillah Khan refuse to start a shehnai school in the USA?
Bismillah Khan refused because of his immense love for India, especially Benares, Dumraon, and the holy river Ganga, without which he could not live.
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