Visual Story: The Sound of Music

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The Sound of Music
Two extraordinary musicians who transformed adversity into artistic triumph, proving that passion and 
perseverance can overcome any obstacle.
Evelyn Glennie
A profoundly deaf Scottish percussionist who 
learnt to feel music through vibrations, becoming 
the world's first full-time solo percussionist.
Bismillah Khan
The legendary shehnai maestro who elevated a 
temple instrument to the classical stage and 
played at India's independence celebration.
Evelyn's Journey
From Silence to Symphony
At seventeen, Evelyn Glennie stood nervously on a 
London underground platform, heading to her first 
day at the prestigious Royal Academy of Music. 
Unlike other aspiring musicians, she faced an 
extraordinary challenge4she was profoundly deaf.
1
Age 8: First Signs
Evelyn's mother noticed something was 
wrong when her daughter failed to respond 
whilst waiting to play the piano.
2
Age 11: Facing Reality
Nerve damage caused severe hearing 
deterioration, requiring hearing aids and 
affecting her schoolwork.
3 The Breakthrough
Percussionist Ron Forbes taught her to feel 
music through vibrations in her feet, legs, 
and fingertips.
4
Rising Star
Achieved top scores at the Royal Academy 
audition, mastering over 1,000 percussion 
instruments.
"Music is something I feel deeply, with the vibrations of each instrument resonating throughout my body."
1991
Royal Philharmonic Society's Soloist of the 
Year
1000+
Percussion Instruments Mastered
A Legacy of Inspiration
Evelyn performs at major venues worldwide whilst 
offering free concerts in prisons and hospitals. She 
works tirelessly with young musicians, proving that 
disabilities are not limitations.
As renowned percussionist James Blades 
remarked, Evelyn conveys emotions through music 
in ways others could only dream of, with a 
connection to sound that is deeply profound.
Bismillah Khan
The Shehnai Maestro
From a banned instrument to the classical stage, the story of how tradition met innovation through one 
man's extraordinary dedication.
The Forbidden Pungi
Emperor Aurangzeb banned the pungi due to its shrill, unpleasant sound.
Innovation Born
A barber from a family of musicians reinvented the instrument with a longer stem and seven holes.
The Shehnai Emerges
The melodious new instrument became integral to temples and North Indian wedding ceremonies.
Classical Recognition
Ustad Bismillah Khan elevated the shehnai from temple instrument to the classical stage.
Early Mastery
From a young age, Bismillah 
immersed himself in learning 
from his uncle, practising by 
the banks of the Ganga in 
Benaras.
Historic Moment
Performed at the Red Fort on 
India's Independence Day in 
1947, symbolising the nation's 
freedom through soulful 
shehnai notes.
Global Acclaim
His music transcended 
borders, earning international 
recognition whilst remaining 
humble and dedicated to his 
art.
Prestigious Honours
Padmashri
Padma Bhushan
Padma Vibhushan
Bharat Ratna (2001) - India's highest civilian 
honour
Cultural Bridge: Despite global fame, Bismillah Khan's heart remained rooted in his beloved 
Benaras and Dumraon. He embodied India's diverse heritage, bridging religious and musical divides 
through the universal language of music.
Universal Themes
Overcoming 
Adversity
Both musicians triumphed 
over seemingly 
insurmountable challenges 
through resilience and 
innovation.
Power of Passion
Their unwavering dedication 
transformed personal 
limitations into extraordinary 
artistic achievements.
Music Without 
Boundaries
Their stories prove that music 
transcends physical 
limitations, cultural divides, 
and geographical borders.
The Message
Resilience, hard work, and dedication can help one overcome any obstacle and achieve dreams, no matter 
the circumstances. Music has the power to unite hearts and souls, creating harmony amidst diversity 
whilst celebrating one's heritage and roots.