Class 9 English - GUJARAT
Prose: The Sound of Music
The chapter 'The Sound of Music' from the Class 9 GSEB English curriculum explores the inspiring lives of two remarkable musicians. Part I tells the story of Evelyn Glennie, a multi-percussionist who became deaf at a young age but learned to hear music through her body rather than her ears. Part II chronicles the life of Bismillah Khan, the legendary shehnai maestro who brought the classical instrument to the global stage. This chapter is significant for board exams as it tests reading comprehension, character analysis, and imparts valuable life lessons on perseverance, dedication, and overcoming physical barriers.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Evelyn Glennie's Disability and Determination
Evelyn lost her hearing ability by the age of eleven, but her passion for music drove her to master percussion by feeling the vibrations through different parts of her body.
Percussionist Success
Mentored by percussionist Ron Forbes, Evelyn auditioned for the Royal Academy of Music and scored one of the highest marks in its history before pursuing a solo international career.
Bismillah Khan and the Shehnai
Ustad Bismillah Khan popularized the shehnai, transforming it from a traditional temple instrument played during auspicious occasions into a celebrated classical concert instrument.
Patriotism and Cultural Roots
Despite receiving lucrative offers to settle abroad, Bismillah Khan remained deeply attached to his hometown of Banaras, the holy river Ganga, and his Indian heritage.
Key Definition: Maestro
A distinguished musician, especially a conductor of classical music, a term frequently used to describe masters like Bismillah Khan.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the Gujarat (GSEB) Class 9 English board-pattern exams, this chapter typically carries around 5 to 8 marks. Questions commonly include short answer questions, long descriptive questions based on the character sketches of Evelyn Glennie and Bismillah Khan, extract-based reading comprehension, and vocabulary exercises.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Evelyn Glennie 'hear' music despite being deaf?
Evelyn could not hear through her ears, so she learned to sense music through her body by feeling vibrations in her feet, legs, and even fingertips.
Why was the pungi banned by Emperor Aurangzeb?
Emperor 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 deep love for India, especially Banaras, the holy river Ganga, and Dumraon, which he missed terribly whenever he went abroad.
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