Class 9 English - MAHARASHTRA
Prose: The Sound of Music
The Sound of Music, a two-part Class 9 English prose chapter prescribed by the Maharashtra (MSBSHSE) board, explores the inspiring journeys of remarkable musicians. Part I tells the 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 chronicles the life of Bismillah Khan, the legendary shehnai maestro who brought the instrument onto the classical stage. This chapter is vital for board exams as it tests reading comprehension, thematic understanding of perseverance, and appreciation of biographies, frequently featuring in both extract-based and long-answer questions.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Overcoming Disability
Evelyn Glennie's life demonstrates that physical impairment is not a barrier to achieving extraordinary success through determination and hard work.
Sensory Perception in Music
Evelyn perceives sound not through her ears, but by feeling vibrations through her skin, hair, and even the soles of her feet.
Cultural Heritage and Tradition
Bismillah Khan's journey highlights the rich tradition of Indian classical music and the deep cultural roots of the shehnai.
Patriotism and Simplicity
Despite international fame, Bismillah Khan remained deeply attached to his hometown Benares and the holy river Ganga, reflecting profound humility and patriotism.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the Maharashtra (MSBSHSE) Class 9 English board pattern, prose chapters like 'The Sound of Music' typically carry around 4 to 6 marks. Common question types include factual comprehension, vocabulary exercises based on the text, personal response questions testing the moral values of the story, and appreciation of character traits of Evelyn Glennie and Bismillah Khan.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Evelyn Glennie manage to hear music despite being deaf?
Evelyn learned to open her mind and body to sounds and vibrations, feeling the music through her skin, cheekbones, and hair.
Why was the shehnai banned by Emperor Aurangzeb?
Emperor Aurangzeb banned the playing of a musical instrument called pungi in the royal residence because it had a shrill and unpleasant sound.
What message does the chapter convey to students?
The chapter teaches us that with strong determination, hard work, and a positive attitude, we can overcome any physical or social obstacle in life.
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