Character Sketch: The Sound of Music | English Class 9 PDF Download

Part I - Evelyn Glennie Listens to Sound without Hearing It

Evelyn Glennie was a young girl who loved music but was deaf. Despite this, she pursued her passion and went to the Royal Academy of Music. She learned to feel music through vibrations and became a talented percussionist with hard work and help from her mentor, Ron Forbes. Evelyn achieved great success, winning awards and inspiring others, especially deaf children. She performed worldwide and gave back through free concerts and mentoring. Her story shows that determination and passion can overcome any obstacle, inspiring people to believe in their dreams.

Character 1: Evelyn Glennie

Evelyn Glennie(a) Character Traits: Unflinching determination, strong self-belief, dedication, courage, confidence.,

(b) Role: Evelyn Glennie is the main character of the story. Despite losing her hearing at a young age, she refuses to let her disability define her. Instead of succumbing to societal expectations of attending a school for the deaf, she chooses to live a normal life and pursue her passion for music. Her determination and resolve enable her to develop a unique ability to perceive and play music through physical sensations on her body. 

(c) Learning:  She learns to sense musical notes through her skin, hair, fingers, and feet. With unwavering confidence, she pursues admission to the Royal Academy of Music in London, where she excels and earns recognition as a percussionist. Evelyn's achievements not only defy the limitations of her disability but also inspire others facing challenges.

Character 2: Ron Forbes

Ron Forbes(a) Character Traits: Mentorship, encouragement, supportive, knowledgeable.

(b) Role: Ron Forbes plays a crucial role as Evelyn's mentor and guide. He recognizes her potential and encourages her despite the initial discouragement she faces from her teachers. Under his guidance, Evelyn learns how to adapt and develop sensitivity to musical sounds using different parts of her body. His belief in her abilities boosts her confidence and helps shape her musical journey. Ron Forbes's role highlights the importance of supportive mentors in nurturing talent and helping individuals overcome obstacles.

(c) These characters together illustrate the narrative of Evelyn Glennie's journey from adversity to achievement, emphasizing the transformative power of determination, support, and resilience in the face of challenges.

Part II - The Shennai of Bismillah Khan

Ustad Bismillah Khan was a famous shehnai player from Bihar, known for making the instrument popular worldwide. He started learning shehnai at a young age near the Ganga in Benaras. His career took off with radio broadcasts and he gained fame for playing at India's independence. Khan performed globally and received many awards, including the Bharat Ratna. Despite offers to move abroad, he loved Benaras and Dumraon, always promoting Indian music and culture.

Character 1: Bismillah Khan

Bismillah Khan(a) Character Traits: Great musician, devout patriot, liberal human being, passionate about his art and heritage.

(b) Role: Bismillah Khan is the central figure and protagonist of the narrative. He is portrayed as a legendary musician who mastered the shehnai, a traditional Indian wind instrument. 

• Born into a family of musicians, he inherited a deep-rooted love for music and diligently practiced from a young age. 
• His contributions to shehnai music include improvising ragas and harmonizing them with the natural sounds of the Ganga river, showcasing his innovative approach to traditional music. 
• Bismillah Khan's fame extends globally through his performances at international conferences, concerts, and prestigious venues like the Red Fort on India's Independence Day. 
• He received numerous awards, including the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honor, for his exceptional contributions to music and culture. 
• Beyond his musical prowess, Bismillah Khan is celebrated for his patriotism, demonstrated by his refusal to settle abroad despite opportunities, and his profound respect for India's cultural heritage. 
• He exemplifies a liberal human spirit by embracing and respecting all religions, evidenced by his daily performances at the Kashi Vishwanath temple in Benaras despite being a devout Muslim. 
• Overall, Bismillah Khan emerges as a cultural icon whose legacy transcends borders, leaving a lasting impact on Indian classical music and global appreciation of its richness.

Other Characters

(a) Family of Musicians: Bismillah Khan's paternal and maternal families, who provided the foundation and early training in music.

(b) Students and Admirers: Individuals who admired Bismillah Khan's music and offered him opportunities, such as performing internationally and suggesting he settle in the USA.

(c) Audiences and International Communities: People worldwide who appreciated and honored Bismillah Khan's talent, leading to invitations to perform at various prestigious events and venues globally.

(d) Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Represents the religious and cultural context where Bismillah Khan performed daily, showcasing his respect for different faiths and traditions.