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I. Chapter Summary:
“The Sound of Music” is divided into two parts, each telling the inspiring story of a musician who defied odds to achieve greatness.
- Part I: Evelyn Glennie Listens to Sound Without Hearing It
This section narrates the story of Evelyn Glennie, a profoundly deaf girl who becomes a world-famous percussionist. With determination and guidance from mentor Ron Forbes, she learns to sense music through different parts of her body. Her story is a tribute to perseverance, hard work, and breaking societal limitations. - Part II: The Shehnai of Bismillah Khan
This part focuses on Ustad Bismillah Khan, a legendary shehnai maestro who elevated the status of the instrument. It discusses his early life, musical contributions, and deep patriotism. His dedication and simplicity make him a cultural icon of India.
Themes: Perseverance, inclusion, cultural pride, music as a universal language, and the role of individual passion in changing perceptions.
II. Key Concepts Covered:
| Concept | Explanation |
| Overcoming Disability | Evelyn’s journey shows how willpower can transcend physical limitations. |
| Musical Intelligence | Both individuals exhibit an extraordinary connection with music. |
| Cultural Contribution | Bismillah Khan’s story reflects India’s rich musical heritage. |
| Dedication and Simplicity | Both musicians achieve fame without losing humility. |
| National Identity | Bismillah Khan remained rooted in his Indian identity and culture. |
III. Important Questions:
(A) Multiple Choice Questions (1 Mark):
- Who guided Evelyn to feel music through her body?
a) Her mother
b) Ron Forbes ✅
c) Her doctor
d) Her school principal - Which musical instrument is associated with Bismillah Khan?
a) Sitar
b) Tabla
c) Shehnai ✅
d) Violin - What challenge did Evelyn face in life?
a) Blindness
b) Poverty
c) Deafness ✅
d) Dyslexia - Bismillah Khan refused to settle abroad because:
a) He loved Indian food
b) He missed Ganga and India’s ethos ✅
c) He didn’t like foreign audiences
d) His family was against it
(B) Short Answer Questions (2/3 Marks):
- How did Evelyn become deaf, and how did she cope with it?
- Describe Bismillah Khan’s feelings towards his country.
- Why is Evelyn considered a role model for differently-abled people?
- What was unique about Bismillah Khan’s lifestyle despite his fame?
– PYQ 2020
(C) Long Answer Questions (5 Marks):
- How does Evelyn Glennie’s life reflect the statement: “Where there is a will, there is a way”?
- What are the similarities and differences in the lives of Evelyn Glennie and Bismillah Khan?
- “Music knows no barriers.” — Justify the statement with reference to The Sound of Music.
- How did Bismillah Khan’s music contribute to India’s cultural identity?
– PYQ 2022
(D) HOTS (Higher Order Thinking Skills):
- Do you think technology today would have helped Evelyn more? How would it affect her journey?
- In what ways can art and music break social or physical limitations?
IV. Key Formulas/Concepts:
Not applicable for this literature chapter.
However, literary elements to revise:
| Device | Usage |
| Biography | Non-fiction account of real-life achievers. |
| Inspiration | Focused tone meant to uplift and motivate. |
| Symbolism | Music symbolizes resilience, unity, and freedom. |
| Contrast | Two lives from different backgrounds, unified by music. |
V. Deleted Portions (CBSE 2025–2026):
No portions have been deleted from this chapter as per the rationalized NCERT textbooks.
VI. Chapter-Wise Marks Bifurcation (Estimated – CBSE 2025–2026):
| Unit/Chapter | Estimated Marks | Type of Questions Typically Asked |
| Chapter 2: The Sound of Music | 6 marks | 1 Long Answer or 2 Short Answers + 1 MCQ or HOTS |
VII. Previous Year Questions (PYQs):
| Year | Marks | Question |
| 2020 | 3 | What values can we learn from Evelyn Glennie’s life? |
| 2022 | 5 | Compare and contrast the contributions of Evelyn Glennie and Bismillah Khan. |
VIII. Real-World Application Examples to Connect with Topics:
| Context | Application |
| Inclusive Education | Evelyn’s story supports education systems that value differently-abled students. |
| Performing Arts & Culture | Bismillah Khan’s legacy is part of India’s musical curriculum and cultural education. |
| National Identity | Music as a symbol of cultural diplomacy and patriotism. |
| Career Inspiration | Role models for aspiring musicians, artists, and social leaders. |
IX. Student Tips & Strategies for Success:
Time Management:
- 10 minutes: Read both parts.
- 15 minutes: Write short answers and reflect on value-based questions.
Exam Preparation:
- Practice character sketches and theme-based questions.
- Understand cultural and emotional tone.
- Use quotes and lines from the chapter to enrich answers.
Stress Management:
- Listen to instrumental music as a relaxation and revision tool.
- Reflect on stories of real-life achievers like Evelyn or Khan saab to stay motivated.
X. Career Guidance & Exploration:
For Classes 9–10:
| Stream | Career Paths |
| Humanities | Musician, Cultural Researcher, Music Therapist |
| Science | Acoustic Engineer, Audiologist (esp. for hearing aid development) |
| Commerce | Entertainment Business Manager, Music Event Curator |
- Foundational Exams/Activities:
- NTSE
- Kala Utsav
- Olympiads (English & Arts)
- Youth Music or Theatre Competitions
XI. Important Notes:
- Always check the official CBSE website and NCERT textbook for the latest syllabus and changes.
- The Sound of Music is both inspirational and culturally rich—highlight both angles in answers.
- Quote from the text: “She never looked back.” — Perfect for conclusion in exams.
- Practice writing from Evelyn’s or Bismillah Khan’s perspective in diary entries or interviews for deeper understanding.
