Class 9 English Chapter 2 Important Question Answers - The Sound of Music

Short Answer Type Questions

Q1. When was Evelyn’s deafness first noticed? When was it confirmed?
Ans: Evelyn's hearing difficulties were first noticed by her mother when she was eight years old. During a moment when Evelyn was waiting to play the piano, she did not respond when her name was called, leading Isabel to suspect something was wrong. This concern was confirmed when Evelyn was eleven years old, after a visit to a specialist revealed that her hearing was severely impaired due to gradual nerve damage.

Q2. When and how did Evelyn lose her power of hearing?
Ans: Evelyn lost her power of hearing due to gradual nerve damage. This issue was first noticed when she was eight years old while waiting to play the piano. By the age of eleven, it was confirmed that she had completely lost her hearing ability.

Q3. Why was Evelyn nervous while going to the Royal Academy of Music?
Ans: Evelyn felt nervous about attending the Royal Academy of Music because she was only 16 years old and had just come from the Scottish farms. This transition to a prestigious institution added to her anxiety.

Q4. How did Evelyn’s deafness come to light? 
OR
 When did Evelyn’s mother notice that something was wrong with her hearing?
Ans: At the age of eight, Evelyn's mother noticed something was wrong when she did not respond to her name being called to play the piano. By eleven, her academic performance had declined, leading her headmistress to recommend a visit to a specialist. It was then confirmed that Evelyn had a severe hearing impairment.

Q5. Who helped Evelyn to continue with music? What did he do and say?
Ans: When Evelyn decided to pursue her music career, she faced discouragement from many. However, percussionist Ron Forbes recognised her potential and offered his support. He encouraged her to listen to music in a different way, saying, "Don't listen through your ears; try to sense it some other way." This guidance helped Evelyn realise that she could feel the music through her body, discovering vibrations in different parts of her physique. With Forbes' encouragement, she learned to open her mind and body to the sounds and vibrations of music, which became the foundation for her determination and hard work.

Q6. How did Evelyn hear music despite being deaf?
Ans: Evelyn hears music by sensing vibrations throughout her body. When she plays the xylophone, she feels the sound in her fingertips. By leaning against drums, she can perceive the resonances flowing into her body. On wooden floors, she removes her shoes to allow vibrations to travel through her bare feet and up her legs.

Q7. What is Evelyn’s secret of success and what message does she give to achievers?
Ans: Evelyn's secret to success is her unwavering determination and hard work. She encourages achievers with her message: work hard to reach your goals. Believe in yourself, no matter the challenges you face. Stay focused and committed to your passion. Her journey demonstrates that with effort and perseverance, success is within reach.

Q8. How has Evelyn Glennie inspired handicapped people?
Ans: Evelyn Glennie has inspired many individuals with disabilities through her incredible achievements. Her success serves as a powerful reminder that with determination, challenges can be overcome. By bringing percussion to the forefront of music, she has shown that it can evoke deep emotions. Glennie's journey encourages those facing difficulties to follow their dreams, illustrating that limitations can be surpassed.

Long Answer Type Questions

Q1. How did Evelyn Glennie fight with her physical disability?
Ans: Evelyn Glennie faced her physical disability with remarkable courage. She learned to connect with sounds and vibrations through her body, allowing her to feel music deeply. This passion led her to join an orchestra, attend the Royal Academy of Music, and perform solo on stages worldwide. Her determination ensured she never missed out on the joy of music, ultimately making her a renowned musician.

Q2. In spite of her towering success, Evelyn Glennie does not accept any hint of heroic achievement. Explain?
Ans: Evelyn Glennie faced significant challenges due to her hearing loss, which was initially discouraged by her teachers. However, she persevered with the help of Ron Forbes, who taught her to listen through her body rather than her ears. Through determination, Evelyn learned to connect with sound and vibrations, ultimately achieving remarkable success. She earned the highest marks in the history of the Royal Academy of Music and received numerous prestigious awards. She brought percussion to the forefront of orchestras and has inspired millions with her music. Despite her extraordinary achievements, Evelyn remains humble and does not view herself as a hero. She believes that with hard work and a clear direction, anyone can succeed. Evelyn's journey demonstrates that personal effort and resilience can lead to success, regardless of the obstacles one may face.

Q3. Evelyn’s determination to overcome her disability has made her a source of inspiration for deaf children. Comment?
Ans: Evelyn's journey as a deaf musician is truly inspiring. After losing her hearing, she was determined to lead a normal life and pursue her passion for music. With encouragement from her percussion teacher, she learned to sense music through her body. Evelyn discovered that she could feel different instruments: the higher drum from the waist up and the xylophone through her fingertips. By removing her shoes on wooden floors, she enhanced her ability to feel vibrations. Through sheer determination and hard work, Evelyn became a master of many instruments and is now a highly sought-after multi-percussionist. Her achievements have made her a role model for deaf children, demonstrating that they can achieve their dreams despite challenges. Evelyn's story shows that with perseverance, anything is possible.

Q4. How is Evelyn Glennie helping others with her popularity and skill?
Ans: Evelyn Glennie has made remarkable contributions to society despite her deafness. After attending the Royal Academy of Music, she won the prestigious Soloist of the Year award. Evelyn dedicated extensive time to learning languages, including Japanese and French. She has performed free concerts in prisons and hospitals, sharing her talent with those in need. As a role model, she inspires many, particularly deaf children, demonstrating that they can achieve their dreams. Evelyn has elevated percussion to a prominent position in orchestras, showcasing its emotional depth. Her journey encourages countless individuals, proving that with determination and hard work, anything is possible.

Q5. How did Evelyn succeed in pursuing her interest in music?
Ans: Evelyn succeeded in pursuing her interest in music through her determination and the support of Ron Forbes, a percussionist who recognised her potential. He encouraged her to focus on vibrations instead of sound. He advised her to feel the higher drum from the waist up and the lower drum from the waist down, helping her to open her mind and body to different notes. With practice, Evelyn learned to sense music in various parts of her body. This unique approach enabled her to embrace her passion for music despite her challenges.

Value-Based Question

Q1. “A problem is only as big as we make it.” This thought has been very beautifully brought out in the lesson. Discuss?
Ans: Evelyn Glennie is a remarkable example of overcoming challenges. Despite being profoundly deaf, she learned to experience music through her body. She achieved the highest marks in the history of the Royal Academy of Music, showcasing her dedication and talent. Evelyn has become a renowned musician and an inspiration to many, demonstrating that no problem is too great to overcome. Her journey illustrates that challenges can be transformed into opportunities. With the guidance of percussionist Ron Forbes, she discovered how to feel music through vibrations, allowing her to connect with sound in a unique way. This ability not only propelled her career but also inspired countless individuals facing their own difficulties. Evelyn's story is a testament to the idea that a problem is only as big as we make it. By embracing her circumstances and working tirelessly, she has brought percussion to the forefront of orchestras, proving that determination can lead to extraordinary achievements. Evelyn's success serves as a powerful reminder that with hard work and resilience, we can overcome even the most daunting obstacles.

Part II- The Shehnai of Bismillah Khan

Short Answer Type Questions

Q1. How did ‘pungi’ transform into a Shehnai?
Ans: The pungi was a musical instrument that faced a ban due to its shrill and unpleasant sound. A barber, who belonged to a family of musicians, sought to enhance its tonal quality. He crafted a new instrument with a longer and broader pipe, adding seven holes to create a more melodious sound. When he played this improved version in the Shah's chamber, it captivated the audience. As it was first performed in the royal setting by a nai (barber), the instrument was named the shehnai. Over time, the shehnai became associated with auspicious occasions, such as weddings and temple ceremonies, and gained popularity as a vital part of North Indian music.

Q2. Who had brought shehnai to the classical Stage? What was he honoured with?
Ans: Shehnai was introduced to the classical stage by Ustad Bismillah Khan. Under the guidance of his maternal uncle, Ali Bux, he began to master the intricate finger techniques of the shehnai. His dedication and talent earned him several prestigious awards, including the Padma Bhushan, Padma Shri, and Padma Vibhushan.

Q3. Why did Bismillah Khan refuse to start a shehnai school in the U.S.A.?
Ans: Bismillah Khan declined to establish a shehnai school in the U.S.A. because he felt unable to live outside of India. His deep affection for Benares and Dumraon made him miss these places whenever he was abroad.

Q4. Why did emperor Aurangazeb ban the playing of Pungi in the royal residence?
Ans: Aurangzeb banned the playing of the Pungi in the royal residence due to its shrill and unpleasant sound. It was perceived more as a noisemaker than a true musical instrument, leading to its prohibition.

Q5. What is the difference between a Pungi and a Shehnai?
Ans: The Pungi and Shehnai differ in both shape and sound. The Shehnai is longer than the Pungi, which contributes to its unique sound. The Pungi produces a shrill and often unpleasant noise, while the Shehnai is known for its soft and melodious tones, making it more suitable for traditional ceremonies.

Q6. How do we know that the sound of Shehnai is considered auspicious?
Ans: The sound of the shehnai is considered auspicious because it is traditionally played in temples and is essential for joyous occasions, such as weddings. Historically, the shehnai was part of the naubat, a group of nine instruments used in royal courts. Its significance has persisted, as it continues to be a vital element of North Indian celebrations. The shehnai gained prominence largely due to Ustad Bismillah Khan, who transformed it into a classical instrument. His early experiences in temples and his dedication to the craft helped elevate the shehnai's status. Today, it remains a symbol of good fortune and is indispensable in cultural festivities.

Q7. What were the recurring themes of Bismillah Khan’s music?
Ans: The recurring theme in Bismillah Khan's music is the deep connection between human beings and the flowing waters of the Ganga. He regarded Benares and Dumraon as the most beautiful towns in the world, reflecting his profound appreciation for these places.

Q8. What place did Shehnai have in the past? What place has it now?
Ans: In the past, the Shehnai was part of a traditional ensemble of nine instruments used in royal courts. It was primarily played in temples and during weddings. Today, it has gained wider recognition and is also featured in classical concerts.

Q9. When and how did Bismillah Khan get the break?
Ans: Bismillah Khan received his big break at the age of 14 when he accompanied his uncle to the Allahabad Music Conference. After his performance, renowned musician Ustad Faiyaz Khan encouraged him by saying, “Work hard and you shall make it.” This encouragement motivated Bismillah to dedicate himself to music. His significant opportunity came with the launch of All India Radio in Lucknow in 1938, where he became a prominent shehnai player.

Q10. Where did Bismillah Khan play the Shehnai on 15th Aug 1947? Why was the event historic?
Ans: Bismillah Khan was the first Indian to greet the nation with his shehnai on 15 August 1947, performing Raag Kafi from the Red Fort. This event was historic as it occurred during India's independence, with an audience that included Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru.

Q11. Why did Bismillah Khan regularly go to the nearby Bihariji temple in his childhood, and what did he earn?
Ans: At the age of five, Bismillah Khan frequently visited the nearby Bihariji temple to sing the Bhojpuri 'Chaita'. For his melodious singing, he earned a laddu weighing 1.25 kg, a prize awarded by the local Maharaja. This early experience marked the beginning of his musical journey.

Long Answer Type Questions

Q1. “There is always a teacher to bring out the latent potential of a pupil/’ Justify with reference to the role played by Ron Forbes and Ustad Faiyaz Khan in the lives of Evelyn Glennie and Bismillah Khan?
Ans: Teachers play a crucial role in unlocking the hidden potential of their students. Ron Forbes recognised Evelyn Glennie's passion for music and taught her to perceive sound differently. Instead of relying on her ears, he guided her to feel music through the vibrations in her hands and legs. This innovative approach helped Evelyn grow more confident and expressive in her musical abilities. Similarly, Bismillah Khan was profoundly influenced by his maternal uncle, Ali Bux. As a child, Bismillah was captivated by Ali Bux's Shehnai performances at the Vishnu Temple in Benares. Accompanying his uncle, he absorbed the intricate details of playing the Shehnai and dedicated countless hours to practice by the banks of the Ganga. His uncle's mentorship was instrumental in Bismillah's journey to mastery, showcasing how a teacher can shape a pupil's future.

Q2. Give a brief character sketch of Ustad Bismillah Khan?
Ans: Ustad Bismillah Khan was a renowned Shehnai master, celebrated both nationally and internationally. He was a gifted musician, trained by his maternal uncle, Ali Bux, who refined his skills. Ustad Bismillah Khan was instrumental in bringing the shehnai to the classical music stage, dedicating countless hours to practice in pursuit of perfection. His melodious performance marked the first Indian greeting to independent India on 15 August 1947, where he played Raag Kafi from the Red Fort, captivating an audience that included Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. Throughout his career, he created numerous new rags and received prestigious awards, including the Bharat Ratna. A true patriot, he turned down many opportunities to settle abroad, valuing his roots and the essence of Hindustani Classical Music. Despite his fame, he remained a humble and simple man.

Q3. How did the young Bismillah develop his interest in Shehnai?
Ans: Bismillah Khan developed a strong interest in the shehnai at a very young age. His fascination began when he was just three years old, watching his uncle, Ali Bux, practice the instrument. This early exposure to the music captivated him deeply. Bismillah soon began accompanying his uncle to the Vishnu Temple in Benares, where Ali Bux was employed to play the shehnai. There, Bismillah would sit for hours, absorbing the music and gradually learning to play himself. As he practiced along the banks of the Ganga, the sounds of the flowing water inspired him to create new raagas that were previously thought to be unattainable for the shehnai. By the age of 14, Bismillah attended the Allahabad Music Conference with his uncle, where he received encouragement from the renowned Ustad Faiyaz Khan, who told him to work hard. This moment motivated Bismillah to pursue his passion for music even more fervently.

Q4. How was Bismillah Khan’s music recognized internationally?
Ans: Bismillah Khan gained international recognition for his exceptional talent and contributions to music. He played a significant role in promoting the shehnai globally, participating in prestigious events such as the World Exposition in Montreal, the Cannes Art Festival, and the Osaka Trade Fair. Notably, he became the first Indian to perform at the esteemed Lincoln Centre Hall in the United States. His fame was so widespread that an auditorium in Tehran was named in his honour, Tahar Mosiquee Ustaad Bismillah Khan.

Q5:  Why did Bismillah Khan refuse to start a Shehnai school in the U.S.A.?
Ans. Bismillah Khan was exceedingly fond of Benares and Dumraon. They were the most wonderful towns of the world for him. The students promised to recreate the atmosphere of Benares, but he asked if they would be able to transport River Ganga as well. Whenever he was in a foreign country he yearned for Hindustan. In Mumbai also he thought of only Benares and the holy Ganga. Thus, he refused to start a Shehnai School in the U.S.A.

Value-Based Question

Q1. Do you think Bismillah Khan had very pure and deep feelings for India?
Ans: Yes, Bismillah Khan had very pure and deep-rooted feelings for India, particularly for the banks of the River Ganga and Benares. His love for his homeland was so profound that he declined an opportunity to establish a school in the U.S.A.. He found life in Mumbai to be artificial and preferred the authenticity of his surroundings. His connection to the banks of the Ganga and Benares was a significant part of his identity.