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

Q1: When and how was Evelyn’s hearing problem noticed?
Ans: Evelyn's hearing problem was noticed by her mother when she was only eight years old. Her loss of hearing was gradual, and one day while waiting to play the piano, her name was called but she did not seem to hear.

Q2: When was Evelyn’s deafness confirmed? What advice was given to her?
Ans: Evelyn's deafness was confirmed by the time she was eleven, as her marks had deteriorated. Her teachers advised her parents to take her to a specialist, who recommended fitting her with hearing aids and sending her to a school for the deaf.

Q3: What kind of recognition did Evelyn get at the Royal Academy of Music?
Ans: Evelyn joined the Royal Academy of Music at seventeen and achieved the highest marks in the history of the academy. She was considered one of the most brilliant students, winning numerous top awards during her three-year course.

Q4: Why did Evelyn say, “Men with bushy beards give me trouble”?
Ans: Evelyn could understand others by reading lip movements and watching faces and eyes. However, it was challenging for her to read the lip movements of men with bushy beards, leading her to jokingly remark that they gave her trouble.

Q5: What did James Blades say about Evelyn’s music?
Ans: James Blades commented that while Evelyn may have lost her sense of hearing, she possesses something extraordinary. She feels music more deeply than those who can hear and expresses it beautifully through her talent.

Q6: How did Evelyn inspire the deaf children?
Ans: Despite her own deafness, Evelyn became a world-renowned multi-percussionist. Her success served as an inspiration for deaf children, proving that they too can achieve their dreams.

Q7: What did Evelyn want to do? How did her teachers react to that? Who helped her?
Ans: Evelyn wanted to live a normal life and pursue her interest in music, specifically playing the xylophone. Although most of her teachers discouraged her, Ron Forbes recognized her potential and motivated her to approach music differently.

Q8: How did Ron Forbes help Evelyn? How could Evelyn sense certain notes?
Ans: Ron Forbes identified Evelyn's potential and tuned large drums to different notes. He encouraged her to sense the music in unconventional ways, leading her to discover that she could sense certain notes through various parts of her body. This allowed her to open her mind and body to sounds and vibrations.

Q9: What was her achievement? What did she say about it?
Ans: Evelyn worked tirelessly and, by the age of sixteen, had toured the United Kingdom. She auditioned for the Royal Academy of Music and, after three years, accumulated numerous top awards. Her motto became, "If you work hard and know where you are going, you'll get there."

Q10: What did Evelyn determine to do?
Ans: Despite her deafness, Evelyn was determined to lead a normal life and pursue her passion for music with confidence and hard work.

Q11: Why did Aurangzeb ban the playing of the Pungi?
Ans: Aurangzeb banned the playing of the Pungi because he found its sound shrill and unpleasant. This decision was later reversed when a barber perfected the instrument.

Q12: How is Shehnai different from Pungi?
Ans: Shehnai is longer and broader than Pungi, made from the natural hollow stem of Burma teak wood. It has seven holes and is played by opening and closing some of these holes. Shehnai is commonly played on auspicious occasions.

Q13: Where was the Shehnai played traditionally? How did Bismillah Khan change this practice?
Ans: Traditionally, the Shehnai was played only in temples and at marriages, and it was limited to royal palaces. Bismillah Khan changed this by popularizing the Shehnai and bringing it onto the classical stage.

Q14: How is the Shehnai instrument made?
Ans: A member of the barber family chose a pipe with a natural hollow stem, longer and broader than the original Pungi. He drilled seven holes, creating a Shehnai with impressive tonal sound. The emperor liked it, and today, Shehnai is made from seasoned Burma teak wood.

Q15: Why did Bismillah Khan refuse to start a Shehnai school in the USA?
Ans: Bismillah Khan's deep attachment to Benaras and the Ganga river made him refuse the offer to start a Shehnai school in the USA. He couldn't leave India and the cultural roots that inspired his music.

Q16: How can you say that Bismillah Khan loved India and Benaras?
Ans: Bismillah Khan's refusal to leave India, his strong connection to Benaras, and his yearning to see India whenever he was abroad all illustrate his deep love for the country, particularly Benaras.

Q17: What was Bismillah Khan’s achievement when he was just five-years old?
Ans: Bismillah Khan's musical talent was evident from a young age. At five years old, he used to sing Bhojpuri 'Chaita' at the Bihariji temple in Dumraon so well that he was awarded a 1.25 kg Laddu by the local Maharaja.

Q18: Why did Bismillah Khan stop scoring music for movies?
Ans: Bismillah Khan stopped scoring music for movies after contributing to two films, as he was dissatisfied with his work and struggled to adapt to the artificiality and glamour of the film industry.

Q19: When and how did Bismillah Khan get his big break?
Ans: Bismillah Khan's breakthrough came with the opening of All India Radio in Lucknow in 1938, where he became a prominent Shehnai player. He gained even more recognition when he played the Shehnai on India's first Independence Day in 1947.

Q20: Where did Bismillah Khan play the Shehnai on 15 August 1947? Why was the event historic?
Ans: Bismillah Khan played the Shehnai from the Red Fort on 15 August 1947, marking India's first Independence Day. This event was historic as he became the first Indian to greet the nation with his music, attended by notable leaders like Nehru and Gandhi.

Q21: Music has no religion. How did Bismillah Khan’s Shehnai prove it? Do you also think so?
Ans: Bismillah Khan's Shehnai transcended religious boundaries. He, a Muslim, played the Shehnai in temples and Hindu ceremonies. His universal appeal demonstrates that music indeed has no religion, and it can bridge cultural divides. I also agree with this perspective.

Q22: How does Evelyn acknowledge her success? How is she a source of inspiration for the handicapped? What do you learn from her life?
Ans: Evelyn acknowledges her success with the motto, “If you work hard and know where you are going, you will get there.” Her journey of determination and achievement serves as a beacon of inspiration for the handicapped. Despite her deafness, Evelyn's remarkable achievements show that physical challenges can be overcome with dedication. Her life teaches us that determination, hard work, and a clear vision are essential for triumphing over obstacles.

Q23: Describe Evelyn’s achievements. What helped her overcome her problems?
Ans: Evelyn, a deaf percussionist, achieved extraordinary success. She mastered over a thousand instruments, traveled globally, and scored high marks at the Royal Academy of Music. Her strong determination and unwavering self-confidence propelled her forward. With the support of her family and mentor Ron Forbes, Evelyn overcame her hearing challenges and proved that dedication can conquer difficulties.

Q24: What inspiration do you get from the life of Evelyn? According to you, what were the most important factors that helped Evelyn in her life?
Ans: The life of Evelyn Glennie inspires me to believe that determination and perseverance can surmount any adversity. Her journey underscores the significance of strong family support, unwavering self-belief, and finding mentors who recognize potential. Most importantly, her story teaches that physical limitations should never hinder the pursuit of dreams.

Q25: Evelyn Glennie has already accomplished more than most people twice her age. What is your opinion about it?
Ans: In my opinion, Evelyn Glennie's accomplishments are a testament to her remarkable determination and unparalleled dedication. Achieving so much at a young age, despite facing the challenge of deafness, showcases her resilience and passion for her craft. Her story encourages us to push beyond limitations and strive for greatness.

Q26: What were the recurring themes of Bismillah Khan’s music and how did they originate? What does this tell you about Bismillah Khan?
Ans: Bismillah Khan's music often revolved around the flowing Ganga river and the ambiance of temples. These themes originated from his early life in Benaras, where he practiced Shehnai on the riverbank and played at temples. This reveals Bismillah Khan's deep spiritual connection, his love for nature, and his ability to infuse his compositions with cultural and emotional richness.

Q27: Describe in brief the early life of Bismillah Khan, his achievements and the various awards that were conferred on him in later years.
Ans: Bismillah Khan, born in 1916, moved to Benaras at a young age and learned Shehnai from his maternal uncle. His talent led him to win awards at music conferences, including an invitation from Pandit Nehru to play at the Red Fort in 1947. He received international accolades and was honored with the prestigious 'Bharat Ratna' award for his outstanding contributions to music.

Q28: Strong determination, motivation and right direction helped Bismillah Khan in being what he was. Do you agree? How important are these characteristic traits in our life?
Ans: Yes, I agree. Bismillah Khan's success was undoubtedly fueled by his strong determination, motivation, and the right guidance. These traits are crucial in life as they provide the foundation for overcoming challenges and achieving goals. Without determination and motivation, even the most talented individuals may struggle to realize their potential.

Q29: You attended one of the concerts of Bismillah Khan. Describe your experience.
Ans: Attending a concert by Bismillah Khan was a mesmerizing experience. The serene atmosphere of the auditorium contrasted with the powerful magic of his Shehnai. The audience, including myself, was captivated by the melodious tunes that flowed effortlessly. Bismillah Khan's performance left an indelible mark, demonstrating the sheer impact of music on the soul. Meeting him in person and obtaining his autograph was an honor I will always cherish.