Class 9 English - PUNJAB

Prose: The Sound of Music

The chapter 'The Sound of Music' from the Class 9 PSEB English curriculum explores the inspiring lives of two extraordinary musicians. Part I narrates the life of Evelyn Glennie, a deaf percussionist who learned to listen to music through her body rather than her ears. Part II tells the story of Bismillah Khan, the legendary shehnai maestro who brought the classical instrument to the global stage. This chapter is very important for Punjab Board examinations as it teaches students perseverance, hard work, and dedication, and frequently appears in reading comprehension and long-answer questions.

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Key Concepts

Perseverance and Overcoming Disability

Evelyn Glennie lost her hearing by the age of eleven, but her strong determination helped her pursue a career in music and become a world-renowned multi-percussionist.

Sensory Perception of Sound

Evelyn does not hear music through her ears; instead, she feels the vibrations through different parts of her body, proving that limitations can be overcome with alternative approaches.

Cultural Heritage and Tradition

Ustad Bismillah Khan represents the rich cultural heritage of India, particularly the traditional Hindustani classical music associated with the shehnai.

Patriotism and Devotion

Despite receiving offers to settle abroad, Bismillah Khan's deep love for India, the River Ganga, and Buxar reflects true patriotism and devotion to one's roots.

Important Formulas

Definition: Percussionist - A person who plays instruments like the drum, tabla, or xylophone by striking them.
Definition: Maestro - A distinguished musician, especially a conductor of classical music.
Definition: Pungi - A loud, reed musical instrument made of a gourd, which was banned by Emperor Aurangzeb due to its shrill sound.
Definition: Shehnai - An improved, refined version of the pungi with a longer and broader stem, played on auspicious occasions.

Board Exam Info

In the Punjab School Education Board (PSEB) Class 9 English exams, this chapter typically carries around 4 to 6 marks. Questions usually include short-answer questions about Evelyn's and Bismillah Khan's achievements, character sketches, and reading comprehension passages based on the text.

Frequently Asked Questions

How did Evelyn Glennie manage to hear music despite being deaf?

Evelyn learned to perceive music through her body, feeling the vibrations through her feet, legs, and even fingertips instead of her ears.

Why did Emperor Aurangzeb ban the playing of the pungi?

Emperor Aurangzeb banned the pungi in the royal residence because it had a shrill, unpleasant, and unmelodious sound.

What is the highest civilian award conferred upon Ustad Bismillah Khan?

Ustad Bismillah Khan was awarded India's highest civilian award, the Bharat Ratna, in the year 2001.

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