Class 9 English - KARNATAKA
Prose: The Sound of Music
The chapter 'The Sound of Music' from the Karnataka (KSEEB) Class 9 English textbook explores the inspiring life and achievements of remarkable musicians. Part I tells the moving story of Evelyn Glennie, a multi-percussionist who became deaf at a young age but learned to listen to music through her body rather than her ears. Part II introduces Bismillah Khan, the legendary shehnai maestro who brought the instrument to the classical stage and represents India's rich cultural heritage. This chapter matters for board exams as it tests reading comprehension, vocabulary, and students' ability to draw thematic lessons on perseverance and dedication.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Evelyn Glennie's Disability and Determination
Evelyn lost her hearing by the age of eleven, but she refused to let her disability stop her passion for music, ultimately becoming one of the world's top percussionists.
Sensing Music through the Body
Master percussionist James Blades helped Evelyn realize that she could feel music through different parts of her body, from her waist up and down.
Origins of the Shehnai
Emperor Aurangzeb banned the playing of a noisy musical instrument called pungi in the royal residence, which led a barber to improve it into the melodious shehnai.
Ustad Bismillah Khan's Musical Journey
Bismillah Khan practiced the shehnai on the banks of the Ganga in Varanasi, popularized it globally, and was awarded India's highest civilian civilian honor, the Bharat Ratna.
Theme of Perseverance
Both biographical accounts teach students that hard work, determination, and focus can help anyone overcome physical or social barriers to achieve greatness.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the Karnataka (KSEEB) Class 9 English board exams, this chapter typically carries around 6 to 8 marks. Questions usually include 1-mark comprehension questions, 2-3 mark short answer questions about Evelyn's achievements or Bismillah Khan's devotion to music, and reference-to-context questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Evelyn Glennie manage to hear music despite being deaf?
Evelyn did not hear music through her ears; instead, she sensed the sound vibrations through her body, feeling different notes through her feet, legs, and even the skin.
Why was the pungi banned by Emperor Aurangzeb?
Aurangzeb banned the playing of the pungi in the royal palace 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 his hometown Varanasi, the holy river Ganga, and the Dumraon in Bihar where he spent his childhood.
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