GSEB Class 9 English Beehive Chapter 2 The Sound of Music Solutions

Part I: Evelyn Glennie Listens To Sound Without Hearing It

Thinking About The Text

I. Answer These Questions In A Few Words Or In A Couple Of Sentences Each:

Question 1. How old was Evelyn when she went to the Royal Academy of Music ?
Answer: Evelyn was seventeen years old when she went to the Royal Academy of Music in London. She was quite young for such a prestigious institution.
In simple words: Evelyn was 17 years old when she started at the Royal Academy of Music.

Exam Tip: Remember to state both Evelyn's age and the location of the academy for a complete answer.

Question 2. When was her deafness first noticed ? When was it confirmed ?
Answer: Evelyn's hearing loss was first noticed by her mother when Evelyn was eight years old. Her mother realized something was wrong when Evelyn did not move after her name was called. Her deafness was definitively confirmed when she reached the age of eleven.
In simple words: Her mother first noticed her deafness at age eight, and it was confirmed when she was eleven.

Exam Tip: Pay attention to the specific ages and events that marked the noticing and confirmation of Evelyn's deafness.

II. Answer Each Of These Questions In A Short Paragraph (30-40 Words):

Question 1. Who helped Evelyn to continue with music ? What did he do and say ?
Answer: Percussionist Ron Forbes was the first person to recognize Evelyn's talent. He started by tuning two big drums to different musical notes. He instructed Evelyn not to hear through her ears but to try and perceive the sound in another way. She soon discovered she could feel the higher drum's sound from her waist up and the lower drum's sound from her waist down. Forbes repeated this exercise, and Evelyn learned to sense specific notes in various parts of her body.
In simple words: Ron Forbes, a percussionist, helped Evelyn by teaching her to feel music through her body's vibrations instead of hearing it with her ears.

Exam Tip: When describing Ron Forbes's role, ensure you mention both his actions (tuning drums, instructing Evelyn) and the key insight she gained about sensing vibrations.

Question 2. Name the various places and causes for which Evelyn performs.
Answer: Evelyn consistently pleased her audiences. She had toured the United Kingdom with a youth orchestra and maintained a very busy international schedule. Besides performing regular concerts, she also gave free performances in correctional facilities and medical centers. She placed high importance on giving classes for young musicians, becoming a brilliant source of encouragement for hearing-impaired children.
In simple words: Evelyn performed for various causes, including regular concerts, free shows in prisons and hospitals, and special classes for young deaf musicians.

Exam Tip: Remember to list both the common performance venues and her charitable efforts, particularly for young deaf musicians.

III. Answer The Question In Two Or Three Paragraphs (100-150 Words):

Question 1. How does Evelyn hear music ?
Answer: Evelyn perceived music by feeling the notes in various parts of her physical body. Ron Forbes, a percussionist, tuned two drums and requested her to sense the sound without using her ears. She discovered she could perceive the higher drum's vibrations from her waist upwards and the lower drum's vibrations from her waist downwards. She practiced opening her mind and body to sounds and vibrations. When she played the xylophone, she could feel the sound moving up the stick and into her fingertips. By resting against the drums, she could feel the echoes flowing into her physical frame.
Additionally, Evelyn would remove her shoes on wooden floors, allowing music to pass through her bare feet and move up her legs. She herself stated that music poured into every part of her body. It made her skin tingle, vibrated in her cheekbones, and even in her hair. Her strong determination and constant practice allowed her to experience music on a profound, sensory level, bypassing the need for auditory hearing.
In simple words: Evelyn hears music by feeling its vibrations in different parts of her body. She senses higher notes from her waist up and lower notes from her waist down. She also feels sounds through her fingertips, bare feet, skin, and even her hair.

Exam Tip: Detail the specific ways Evelyn senses music, such as through different body parts and by removing her shoes, and emphasize the role of vibrations.

Part II: The Shehnai Of Bismillah Khan

Thinking About The Text

I. Tick / Select The Right Answer And Complete The Sentences:

Question 1. The (shehnai, pungi) was a 'reeded noisemaker'.
(a) shehnai
(b) pungi
Answer: (b) pungi
In simple words: The 'pungi' was considered a reeded noisemaker.

Exam Tip: Recall the instrument's original description to identify the correct term.

Question 2. (Bismillah Khan, A barber, Ali Bux) transformed the pungi into a shehnai.
(a) Bismillah Khan
(b) A barber
(c) Ali Bux
Answer: (b) A barber
In simple words: A barber changed the pungi into a shehnai.

Exam Tip: Remember the historical detail about the transformation of the pungi and who was responsible for it.

Question 3. Bismillah Khan's paternal ancestors were (barbers, professional musicians).
(a) barbers
(b) professional musicians
Answer: (b) professional musicians
In simple words: His family before him were professional musicians.

Exam Tip: Focus on the family's profession, not just the individual, when identifying ancestors' roles.

Question 4. Bismillah Khan learnt to play the shehnai from (Ali Bux, Paigambar Bux, Ustad Faiyaaz Khan).
(a) Ali Bux
(b) Paigambar Bux
(c) Ustad Faiyaaz Khan
Answer: (a) Ali Bux
In simple words: Bismillah Khan learned the shehnai from Ali Bux.

Exam Tip: It's important to remember the name of Bismillah Khan's primary mentor for learning the shehnai.

Question 5. Bismillah Khan's first trip abroad was to (Afghanistan, U.S.A., Canada).
(a) Afghanistan
(b) U.S.A.
(c) Canada
Answer: (a) Afghanistan
In simple words: His first travel to another country was to Afghanistan.

Exam Tip: Keep track of key geographical details and first events in Bismillah Khan's life.

II. Find The Words In The Text Which Show Ustad Bismillah Khan's Feelings About The Items Listed Below. Then Mark A Tick (√) In The Correct Column. Discuss Your Answers In Class.

III. Answer These Questions In 30-40 Words:

Question 1. Why did Aurangzeb ban the playing of the pungi ?
Answer: Emperor Aurangzeb prohibited the pungi from being played in the royal residence because it made a sharp and unpleasant noise. For this reason, it gained a general reputation as a reeded noisemaker, unsuitable for a royal setting. Therefore, it was banned from his palace.
In simple words: Aurangzeb banned the pungi because it had a very loud and unpleasing sound, so it was not allowed in his palace.

Exam Tip: Emphasize the two main reasons for the ban: the "shrill" and "unpleasant" sound.

Question 2. How is a shehnai different from a pungi ?
Answer: A shehnai is a pipe with a natural hollow stem that is longer and broader compared to the pungi. It features seven holes on its body. When played, closing and opening some of these holes produce gentle and pleasing sounds, unlike the pungi's shrill noise. These structural and auditory differences set the instruments apart.
In simple words: The shehnai is longer and wider with seven holes, producing soft sounds, while the pungi is smaller and makes a sharp, unpleasing noise.

Exam Tip: Highlight key differences in length, width, number of holes, and the quality of sound produced by each instrument.

Question 3. Where was the shehnai played traditionally ? How did Bismillah Khan change this?
Answer: Traditionally, the shehnai was a part of the standard group of nine musical instruments found at royal courts. It was only utilized in religious sites and marriage ceremonies. However, Ustad Bismillah Khan altered this by introducing it onto the classical music stage, transforming its perception and use. This elevated the instrument's status.
In simple words: Traditionally, shehnai was played in temples, weddings, and royal courts. Bismillah Khan made it popular on the classical stage.

Exam Tip: Specify its traditional venues and then explain Bismillah Khan's transformative impact on its presence in classical music.

Question 4. When and how did Bismillah Khan get his big break ?
Answer: Bismillah Khan had gone with his uncle to the Allahabad Music Conference when he was fourteen. After his performance, Ustad Faiyaz Khan patted him on the back and encouraged him to work diligently to achieve great success in life. He received his major opportunity with the inauguration of All India Radio in Lucknow in 1938. He quickly became a frequently heard shehnai performer on the radio.
In simple words: Bismillah Khan's big break came at 14 at the Allahabad Music Conference, and then with All India Radio in Lucknow in 1938.

Exam Tip: Mention both the Allahabad Music Conference (for encouragement) and the opening of All India Radio (for public recognition) as key moments.

Question 5. Where did Bismillah Khan play the shehnai on 15 August 1947 ? Why was the event historic ?
Answer: On August 15, 1947, Bismillah Khan played the shehnai from the Red Fort. This event was historic because it marked India's independence day celebration. He became the very first Indian to welcome the nation with his shehnai performance. His audience included famous figures like Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru and Mahatma Gandhi.
In simple words: Bismillah Khan played the shehnai at the Red Fort on India's Independence Day in 1947, making it a historic event as he was the first Indian to greet the nation this way.

Exam Tip: Clearly state the location and date, and explain the significance of the event in terms of India's independence and who was present.

Question 6. Why did Bismillah Khan refuse to start a shehnai school in the U.S.A. ?
Answer: Bismillah Khan declined to establish a shehnai school in the U.S.A. because he could not reside beyond India's borders. His student, who had invited him to lead the school, promised to replicate the atmosphere of Benaras by recreating its temples in the foreign city. However, Khan questioned if his student could also transport the River Ganga, which was clearly impossible. He himself stated that whenever he was in a foreign country, he always longed to see Hindustan.
In simple words: Bismillah Khan refused to open a shehnai school in the USA because he deeply loved India, especially Benaras and the Ganga, and couldn't imagine living away from them.

Exam Tip: Focus on his deep connection to India, Benaras, and the River Ganga as the main reasons for his refusal.

Question 7. Find at least two instances in the text which tell you that Bismillah Khan loves India and Benaras.
Answer: Bismillah Khan greatly adored India, especially Benaras and Dumraon. In his younger years, the temple of Balaji, Mangala Maiya, and the riverbanks of Ganga in Benaras became his favorite places where he could practice peacefully and alone. The flowing waters of the Ganga inspired him to create and develop new musical compositions (raagas) that were previously thought to be beyond the shehnai's capabilities. Another instance is his refusal to establish a shehnai school in the U.S.A. He explained that he could not live outside India, and when his student offered to recreate Benaras's atmosphere, he asked if the student could also bring the River Ganga, highlighting his strong attachment.
In simple words: Bismillah Khan loved India and Benaras because he practiced music in its temples and by the Ganga. He also refused to move to the USA for a school, showing his deep bond with his homeland.

Exam Tip: Provide specific examples, such as his practice spots and his reasoning for declining the U.S.A. offer, to demonstrate his love for India and Benaras.

Thinking About Language

I. Look At These Sentences.

• Evelyn was determined to live a normal life.
• Evelyn managed to conceal her growing deafness from friends and teachers.

They begin with a to-verb (to live, to conceal).

Complete the following sentences. Beginning with a to-verb, try to answer the questions in brackets:

Question 1. Complete the following sentences. Beginning with a to-verb, try to answer the questions in brackets:
(1) The school sports team hopes ................ .(What does it hope to do?)
(2) We all want ................ .(What do we all want to do ?)
(3) They advised the hearing-impaired child's mother ................ .(What did they advise her to do?)
(4) The authorities permitted us to ................ .(What did the authorities permit us to do ?)
(5) A musician decided to ................ .(What did the musician decide to do ?)
Answer:
(1) The school sports team hopes to do better than the last time.
(2) We all want to go on a vacation.
(3) They advised the hearing-impaired child's mother to take her to a specialist.
(4) The authorities permitted us to organize a charity event.
(5) A musician decided to take India's music to the world.
In simple words: To complete these sentences, fill in the blank with a verb form that shows what someone wants, intends, or is allowed to do.

Exam Tip: Focus on using infinitive phrases (to + verb) that logically complete the sentence and answer the implied question in the brackets.

II. From The Text On Bismillah Khan, Find The Words And Phrases That Match These Definitions And Write Them Down. The Number Of The Paragraph Where You Will Find The Words / Phrases Has Been Given For You In The Brackets:
Answer:
(1) the home of royal people (1): palace
(2) the state of being alone (5): solitude
(3) a part which is absolutely necessary (2): indispensable component
(4) to do something not done before (5): invent
(5) without much effort (13): effortlessly
(6) quickly and in large quantities (9): thick and fast
In simple words: Match the given definitions with the correct words or phrases from the text about Bismillah Khan.

Exam Tip: Use the paragraph numbers provided to quickly locate the relevant sections in the text and ensure accurate word matching.

III. Tick / Select The Right Answer And Complete The Sentences:
(1) When something is revived, it (remains dead /lives again).
(2) When a government bans something, it wants it (stopped / started).
(3) When something is considered auspicious, (welcome it /avoid it).
(4) When we take to something, we find it (boring / interesting).
(5) When you appreciate something, you (find it good and useful/ find it of no use).
(6) When you replicate something, you do it (for the first time /for the second time).
(7) When we come to terms with something, it is (still upsetting /no longer upsetting).
Answer:
(1) When something is revived, it lives again.
(2) When a government bans something, it wants it stopped.
(3) When something is considered auspicious, welcome it.
(4) When we take to something, we find it interesting.
(5) When you appreciate something, you find it good and useful.
(6) When you replicate something, you do it for the second time.
(7) When we come to terms with something, it is no longer upsetting.
In simple words: Choose the correct word from the options in brackets to complete each sentence accurately based on its meaning.

Exam Tip: Carefully read each sentence and consider the definitions of the words in the brackets to select the most appropriate option.

IV. Dictionary Work:

• The sound of the shehnai is auspicious.
• The auspicious sound of the shehnai is usually heard at marriages.

The adjective auspicious can occur after the verb be as in the first sentence, or before a noun as in the second. But there are some adjectives which can be used after the verb be and not before a noun. For example : Ustad Faiyaz Khan was overjoyed. We cannot say: *the overjoyed man. Look at these entries from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary (2005).

(A) Consult Your Dictionary And Complete The Following Table: (The First One Has Been Done For You)

(B) Use These Words In Phrases Or Sentences Of Your Own:
Answer:
(1) This book is an indispensable resource for researchers.
(2) She was clearly not impressed by our behavior in the restaurant.
(3) Do not be afraid to express what you think.
(4) Hockey is an outdoor game.
(5) They still reside in their paternal home.
(6) I have listened to it played countless times on the radio.
(7) A priceless collection of vases was destroyed.
In simple words: Create your own phrases or sentences using each of the provided words to demonstrate your understanding of their meaning.

Exam Tip: Ensure that each sentence clearly and correctly illustrates the meaning and appropriate usage of the given word.

Writing

"If you work hard and know where you're going, you'll get there.” says Evelyn Glennie.

Question. You have now read about two musicians, Evelyn Glennie and Ustad Bismillah Khan. Do you think that they both worked hard ? Where did they want to 'go'? Answer these questions in two paragraphs, one on each of the two musicians.
Answer: Yes, both these musicians had worked with great dedication to achieve their goals.
When Evelyn realized she was losing her hearing and would need hearing aids, she felt everything suddenly seemed bleak. However, she chose not to give up. She was determined to lead a regular existence and pursue her love for music. With the encouragement of Ron Forbes, she opened her mind and body to sounds and vibrations. The remaining part was pure commitment and hard work. She gradually moved from orchestral performances to solo acts. She mastered over 1000 traditional and unique percussion instruments from around the world and performed with a broad array of musical styles. Achieving this was only possible due to her passion and strong perseverance.
Bismillah Khan was born in Dumraon, Bihar. His father was a shehnai player in the Maharaja of Dumraon's court, and Bismillah followed in his footsteps. As a child, he visited the Bihariji temple to sing Bhojpuri 'chaita' and earned a large laddu as a prize from the Maharaja. At three years old, his mother took him to his maternal uncle's home in Benaras. Young Bismillah was captivated by watching his uncles practice the shehnai. He began taking lessons from his uncle Ali Bux and practiced consistently throughout the day. The Balaji and Mangala Maiya temples and the banks of the Ganga became his preferred spots for solitary practice. At the age of 14, at the Allahabad Music Conference, Ustad Faiyaz Khan praised his efforts. His journey continued, earning him numerous awards and widespread recognition he had never imagined. This remarkable success was only possible through his diligent work and persistent effort.
In simple words: Both Evelyn Glennie and Ustad Bismillah Khan worked very hard to achieve their dreams. Evelyn was determined to continue music despite deafness, opening her body to vibrations. Bismillah Khan dedicated his life to shehnai, practicing for hours in Benaras to master the instrument.

Exam Tip: When comparing the two musicians, make sure to highlight specific examples of their hard work, challenges they faced, and how they overcame them to achieve their musical aspirations.

Reading Comprehension

Read the following passages and select the most appropriate answers for the questions given below them:

Question 1. But Evelyn was not going to give up. She was determined to lead a normal life and pursue her interest in music. One day she noticed a girl playing a xylophone and decided that she wanted to play it too. Most of the teachers discouraged her but percussionist Ron Forbes spotted her potential. He began by tuning two large drums to different notes. "Don't listen through your ears,” he would say, "try to sense it some other way.” Says Evelyn, "Suddenly I realised I could feel the higher drum from the waist up and the lower one from the waist down.” Forbes repeated the exercise and soon Evelyn discovered that she could sense certain notes in different parts of her body. "I had learnt to open my mind and body to sounds and vibrations.” The rest was sheer determination and hard work.
Questions:
1. The phrase 'to give up' means
(a) to offer.
(b) to leave.
(c) to surrender.
(d) to accept.
Answer: (c) to surrender.
In simple words: 'To give up' means to stop trying or to surrender.

Exam Tip: Understand common idioms and their precise meanings to answer vocabulary-based questions accurately.

Question 2. 'Spotted her potential' means
(a) knew her ability.
(b) disqualified her.
(c) selected her.
(d) appreciated her.
Answer: (a) knew her ability.
In simple words: 'Spotted her potential' means someone recognized her natural talent or skill.

Exam Tip: When interpreting phrases, consider the context in which they are used in the passage.

Question 3. From Ron Forbes, Evelyn learnt to ...
(a) play drums.
(b) play xylophone.
(c) sense musical notes.
(d) know the difference between the music of higher drum and lower drum.
Answer: (c) sense musical notes.
In simple words: Evelyn learned from Ron Forbes how to feel the musical notes through her body.

Exam Tip: Focus on the core lesson Ron Forbes taught Evelyn, which was about feeling, not just playing, music.

Question 4. What, according to Evelyn, could she achieve through determination and hard work?
(a) Playing on different musical instruments.
(b) Singing along with music.
(c) Learning from different musicians.
(d) None of these three
Answer: (a) Playing on different musical instruments.
In simple words: With determination and effort, Evelyn believed she could play many musical instruments.

Exam Tip: Relate the answer directly to Evelyn's personal experience and what she accomplished in the passage.

Question 2. She never looked back from that point onwards. She toured the United Kingdom with a youth orchestra and by the time she was sixteen, she had decided to make music her life. She auditioned for the Royal Academy of Music and scored one of the highest marks in the history of the academy. She gradually moved from orchestral work to solo performances. At the end of her three-year course, she had captured most of the top awards. And for all this, Evelyn won't accept any hint of heroic achievement. “If you work hard and know where you are going, you'll get there.” And she got right to the top, the world's most sought-after multi-percussionist with a mastery of some thousand instruments and hectic international schedule.
Questions:
1. 'She never looked back' means
(a) 'She never saw back to find something'.
(b) 'She became more and more successful'.
(c) 'She kept on listening to more music'.
(d) 'She discontinued her progress'
Answer: (b) 'She became more and more successful'.
In simple words: 'She never looked back' means she continuously moved forward and achieved greater success.

Exam Tip: This idiom signifies continuous progress and achievement without returning to a previous state.

Question 2. What achievement of Evelyn is mentioned in the extract ?
(a) She toured the U.K. with a youth orchestra. I;
(b) She decided to make music her life.
(c) She auditioned for the Royal Academy of music and scored one of the highest marks in the history of academy.
(d) All of these three
Answer: (c) She auditioned for the Royal Academy of music and scored one of the highest marks in the history of academy.
In simple words: The extract mentions her major achievement of getting high marks in the Royal Academy of Music audition.

Exam Tip: Select the option that directly states an achievement specifically highlighted in the given passage.

Question 3. From where did Evelyn's journey start as a solo singer ?
(a) From an orchestra performer.
(b) From a street singer.
(c) From a group dancer,
(d) From a music composer.
Answer: (a) From an orchestra performer.
In simple words: Evelyn began her musical journey as a performer in an orchestra.

Exam Tip: Trace Evelyn's early career mentioned in the text to identify her starting point in music.

Question 4. The meaning of the phrase 'sought-after' in this extract is
(a) 'a successful person'.
(b) 'greatly in demand'.
(c) 'forgotten afterwards'.
(d) 'remembered for ever'.
Answer: (b) 'greatly in demand'.
In simple words: 'Sought-after' means that something or someone is very popular and highly desired.

Exam Tip: Consider the context of the phrase – if someone is a "multi-percussionist with a hectic international schedule," they are clearly in high demand.

Question 3. Not surprisingly, Evelyn delights her audiences. In 1991, she was presented with the Royal Philharmonic Society's prestigious Soloist of the Year Award. Says master percussionist James Blades, “God may have taken her hearing but he has given her back something extraordinary. What we hear, she feels-far more deeply than any of us. That is why she expresses music so beautifully." Evelyn confesses that she is something of a workaholic. “I've just got to work often harder than classical musicians. But the rewards are enormous." Apart from the regular concerts in prisons and hospitals. She also gives high priority to classes for young musicians. Ann Richlin of the Beethoven Fund for Deaf Children says, “She is a shining inspiration for deaf children. They see that there is nowhere that they cannot go.”
Questions:
1. ................ is not surprising.
(a) That Evelyn learnt the music herself
(b) That Evelyn has great interest in music
(c) That Evelyn delights her audience
(d) That Evelyn is very famous
Answer: (c) That Evelyn delights her audience
In simple words: It is not surprising that Evelyn's performances bring joy to her audiences.

Exam Tip: Look for the direct statement in the passage that immediately follows the opening phrase "Not surprisingly."

Question 2. 'Percussionist' is a person who produces music by ................
(a) blowing air into the instrument.
(b) blowing strings of the instrument.
(c) plucking the strings of the instrument.
(d) hitting, shaking or scraping the instrument.
Answer: (d) hitting, shaking or scraping the instrument.
In simple words: A percussionist makes music by hitting, shaking, or scraping instruments.

Exam Tip: Recall the definition of a percussionist and the methods used to play percussion instruments.

Question 3. Evelyn admits that 'She is workaholic'. It means ................
(a) she likes to play music.
(b) she keeps herself engrossed in work all the time.
(c) she keeps listening to music.
(d) she likes to enjoy different drinks.
Answer: (b) she keeps herself engrossed in work all the time.
In simple words: Being a workaholic means Evelyn constantly dedicates herself to her work.

Exam Tip: Understand the meaning of "workaholic" as someone who is continuously and excessively engaged in work.

Question 4. What charity work does Evelyn carry out ?
(a) She gives free concerts in prisons and hospitals.
(b) She plays music for deaf and other disabled children.
(c) She offers monetary assistance to poor children.
(d) Both 'A' and 'B'
Answer: (d) Both 'A' and 'B'
In simple words: Evelyn performs free concerts in prisons and hospitals, and also plays music for deaf and disabled children.

Exam Tip: When a question asks about multiple actions, ensure your answer covers all relevant charitable activities mentioned.

Answer The Following Questions In Three To Four Sentences Each:

Question 1. When and how did Evelyn loose her power of hearing ?
Answer: Evelyn began to lose her hearing ability due to slow nerve damage. At the age of eight, her hearing loss was first observed when her mother noticed she didn't respond to her name. It was then definitively confirmed at the age of eleven that Evelyn had entirely lost her capacity to hear. This gradual deterioration significantly changed her life's path.
In simple words: Evelyn gradually lost her hearing due to nerve damage, first noticed at age eight and fully confirmed at eleven.

Exam Tip: State the cause (nerve damage) and the specific ages when her deafness was noticed and confirmed for full marks.

Question 2. Why was Evelyn nervous while going to Royal Academy of Music ?
Answer: Evelyn felt anxious while heading to the Royal Academy of Music because she was only sixteen years old. Being fresh from the Scottish farms, she was also inexperienced and unfamiliar with big city life. This combination of youth, inexperience, and a new environment added to her nervousness, making the journey particularly daunting. She had never been to such a formal institution before.
In simple words: Evelyn was nervous because she was only 16, straight from Scottish farms, and new to the city, making the Royal Academy of Music feel overwhelming.

Exam Tip: Highlight her youth and lack of urban experience as key factors contributing to her nervousness.

Question 3. How did Evelyn's deafness come to light ? OR When did Evelyn's mother notice that something was wrong with her hearing ?
Answer: Evelyn's deafness became apparent at age eight when she failed to respond after her name was called to play the piano. She simply did not react. By the age of eleven, her school grades started to decline significantly. The headmistress then urged her parents to take her to a specialist, and it was during this visit that her hearing impairment was officially diagnosed. This confirmed her mother's earlier suspicions.
In simple words: Evelyn's deafness was noticed when she didn't respond to her name at eight, and it became clear at eleven when her grades dropped, leading to a specialist confirming her hearing loss.

Exam Tip: Provide specific instances and ages, such as not responding to her name and declining grades, to illustrate how her deafness was discovered.

Question 4. Who helped Evelyn to continue with music ? What did he do and say ?
Answer: When Evelyn wished to pursue her musical path, most people discouraged her due to her deafness. However, a percussionist named Ron Forbes recognized her talent and offered assistance. He encouraged her not to listen through her ears but to feel the music's vibrations through her entire body. Forbes provided the essential guidance that allowed Evelyn to continue her musical journey. He taught her a new way to interact with sound.
In simple words: Ron Forbes, a percussionist, helped Evelyn continue music by teaching her to feel vibrations through her body instead of using her ears.

Exam Tip: Clearly identify Ron Forbes and explain his unique teaching method (feeling vibrations) that empowered Evelyn.

Question 5. How did Evelyn hear music despite being deaf?
Answer: Evelyn could sense music through her entire body. When playing the xylophone, she could feel the sound moving up the stick into her fingertips. She would lean against drums to perceive the resonances. On wooden floors, she removed her shoes, allowing music to pass through her bare feet and travel up her legs. She felt the vibrations tingled in her skin, cheekbones, and hair, essentially using her whole body as a soundboard to experience music deeply. Her determination to adapt was key to her success.
In simple words: Evelyn heard music by feeling its vibrations through her body, fingertips, bare feet, and even her skin and hair, converting physical sensations into musical understanding.

Exam Tip: Describe multiple sensory pathways Evelyn used, such as fingertips, bare feet, and leaning against instruments, to illustrate her unique perception of music.

Answer the following questions in five to six sentences each:

Question 1. How did Evelyn Glennie fight with her physical disability ?
Answer: Evelyn Glennie was a very brave girl. She learned to open her whole body and mind to sense the sounds and vibrations. She started feeling as if music was moving through her body. Because of this, she joined an orchestra and later attended the Royal Academy of Music. She did not want to miss the happiness that music brought her. She later performed solo on stages in many countries and became well-known.
In simple words: Evelyn, a brave girl, learned to feel music through her body's vibrations. She joined an orchestra and the Royal Academy of Music, performing solo worldwide, showing her determination not to let disability take away her musical joy.

Exam Tip: When describing how someone overcame a challenge, focus on their actions and determination, providing specific examples like opening their senses to vibrations or joining institutions.

Question 2. Evelyn Glennie does not accept any hint of heroic achievement. Explain.
Answer: Evelyn Glennie experienced hearing loss, and most of her teachers tried to discourage her. However, she did not give up. Ron Forbes showed her how to perceive sound through her body rather than her ears. Eventually, Evelyn managed to open her body and mind to sounds and vibrations. She achieved the highest scores in the history of the Royal Academy of Music. She also earned many top awards and brought percussion instruments to the forefront of the orchestra. She has given enjoyment to millions, and despite her huge success, she does not acknowledge any suggestion of heroic accomplishment and remains a very humble person.
In simple words: Despite her hearing loss and initial discouragement, Evelyn became a master percussionist and earned many awards. She gives joy to millions but stays humble, never seeing her achievements as heroic.

Exam Tip: Emphasize Evelyn's humility and focus on her actions and the guidance she received, rather than portraying her as a traditional hero, to explain her perspective on achievement.

Question 3. Evelyn's determination to overcome her disability has made her source of inspiration for deaf children. Comment.
Answer: When Evelyn became deaf, she was determined to live a normal existence. Her percussion teacher greatly encouraged her. She learned to perceive music through various body parts and opened her mind and body to feel vibrations. She could feel the higher drum from her waist up and the lower drum from her waist down, and xylophone sounds through her fingertips. She used to remove her shoes on wooden floors. She became a master of a thousand instruments and is now a much-desired multi-percussionist.
In simple words: Evelyn, with her teacher's help, learned to feel music through body vibrations after becoming deaf. She mastered many instruments and inspires deaf children to live normal lives.

Exam Tip: Highlight how Evelyn's physical methods for perceiving music (like feeling vibrations through her body) directly translate into a message of hope and possibility for other deaf children.

Question 4. How is Evelyn Glennie helping other with her popularity and skill?
Answer: Despite Evelyn's deafness, she joined the distinguished Royal Academy of Music and received the "Soloist of the Year" award. Evelyn used to practice for many hours, learning languages like Japanese and French. She earned a great deal but had a kind heart. She used to give free performances in correctional facilities and hospitals, and also demonstrated a personal example of continuous hard work and firm resolve.
In simple words: Evelyn, despite being deaf, became a famous musician. She used her popularity and kindness to give free concerts in prisons and hospitals, inspiring others with her tireless work and strong will.

Exam Tip: Focus on the specific acts of charity and inspiration mentioned, such as free concerts and being a role model, to show how she uses her success for good.

Question 5. How did Evelyn succeed in pursuing her interest in music ?
Answer: Evelyn decided not to give up. Ron Forbes recognized her talent and helped her. He told her not to listen through her ears but to experience the vibrations with her entire body and mind. She became skilled at understanding different sound vibrations. She could feel the higher drum from her waist up and the lower drum from her waist down. After much practice, she could sense music in different parts of her body. And because of this, Evelyn succeeded in following her passion for music.
In simple words: Evelyn succeeded by not quitting. Her teacher, Ron Forbes, helped her learn to feel music through body vibrations. She practiced a lot and could sense music everywhere, which let her pursue her passion.

Exam Tip: For questions about success, always mention key factors like determination, mentorship, and unique methods adopted by the individual.

Part II: The shehnai Of Bismillah Khan

Reading Comprehension

Read the following passages and select the most appropriate answers for the questions given below them:

The sound of the shehnai began to be considered auspicious. And for this reason it is still played in temples and is an indispensable component of any North Indian wedding. In the past, the shehnai was part of the naubat or traditional ensemble of nine instruments found at royal courts, Till recently it was used only in temples and weddings. The credit for bringing this instrument on to the classical stage goes to Ustad Bismillah Khan.

As a five-year-old, Bismillah Khan played gilli-danda near a pond in the ancient estate of Dumraon in Bihar. He would regularly go to the nearby Bihariji temple to sing the Bhojpuri 'Chaita', at the end of which he would earn a big laddu weighing 1.25 kg, a prize given by the local Maharaja. This happened 80 years ago, and the little boy has travelled far to earn the highest civilian award in India – the Bharat Ratna.

Question 1. The shehnai became an indispensable component of any North Indian wedding because ..........
A. it was the only music played in North India.
B. there were no other musicians in North India who played other instruments.
C. the sound of the shehnai began to be considered auspicious.
D. All of these three
Answer: (C) the sound of the shehnai began to be considered auspicious.
In simple words: The shehnai became a key part of North Indian weddings because its sound was seen as very lucky and good.

Exam Tip: When answering "because" questions in comprehension, always look for the direct cause-and-effect stated in the passage.

Question 2. The word 'ensemble' here means ..........
A. different kinds of musical instruments,
B. a group or unit of complementary instruments to create a single effect.
D. All of these three
Answer: (B) a group or unit of complementary instruments to create a single effect.
In simple words: 'Ensemble' means a group of instruments that work together to make one complete sound.

Exam Tip: For vocabulary questions, use context clues from the passage to infer the meaning of the word.

Question 3. The credit goes to Bismillah Khan for ..........
A. playing shehnai with great mastery.
B. playing shehnai at royal courts.
C. bringing shehnai to the classical stage.
D. playing shehnai at weddings.
Answer: (C) bringing shehnai to the classical stage.
In simple words: Bismillah Khan is famous for making the shehnai a popular instrument in classical music.

Exam Tip: Identify the specific unique contribution mentioned in the passage when asked for "credit" or "achievement."

Question 4. 'Chaita' is ..........
A. an award given by the local Maharaja.
B. an ancient game like gilli-danda.
C. a prayer sung at temples.
D. a Bhojpuri eatable.
Answer: (C) a prayer sung at temples.
In simple words: 'Chaita' is a type of prayer that people sing at temples.

Exam Tip: Extract specific details from the passage to define terms, avoiding information not explicitly stated.

The young boy took to music early in life. At the age of three when his mother took him to his maternal uncle's house in Benaras (now Varanasi), Bismillah was fascinated watching his uncles practise the shehnai. Soon Bismillah started accompanying his uncle, Ali Bux, to the Vishnu temple of Benaras where Bux was employed to play the shehnai.

Ali Bux would play the shehnai and Bismillah would sit captivated for hours on end. Slowly, he started getting lessons in playing the instrument and would sit practising throughout the day. For years to come the temple of Balaji and Mangala Maiya and the banks of the Ganga became the young apprentice's favourite haunts where he could practise in solitude. The flowing waters of the Ganga inspired him to improvise and invent raagas that were earlier considered to be beyond the range of the shehnai.

Question 1. The meaning of the phrase 'took to' in the extract is ..........
B. 'began as a habit, hobby', etc.
C. 'showed great interest in'.
D. 'did practice'.
Answer: (B) 'began as a habit, hobby', etc.
In simple words: 'Took to' means to start doing something often, like a hobby or a habit.

Exam Tip: Interpret phrases by considering the context of the sentence to find the best synonym or explanation.

Question 2. The meaning of the word 'captivated' is ..........
A. 'attracted intensely and fixedly'.
B. 'arrested and locked up'.
C. 'thoughtlessly'.
D. 'intentionally'.
Answer: (A) 'attracted intensely and fixedly'.
In simple words: 'Captivated' means being so strongly interested in something that you cannot look away.

Exam Tip: Use context to distinguish between similar-sounding options; here, the context is about Bismillah being mesmerized by music, not physically held.

Question 3. The words 'favourite haunts' are used for ..........
A. 'interesting people'.
B. 'preferred places'.
C. 'sacred places of worship'.
D. None of these three
Answer: (B) 'preferred places'.
In simple words: 'Favourite haunts' means the places someone likes to visit very often.

Exam Tip: Pay attention to the connotations of words. 'Haunts' might sound negative but in this context, it refers to frequently visited, beloved spots.

Question 4. Practising on the banks of the Ganga, Bismillah Khan ..........
A. devised ragas.
B. invent new ragas.
C. abandoned some traditional ragas.
D. Both 'A' and 'B'
Answer: (D) Both 'A' and 'B'
In simple words: By practicing near the Ganga, Bismillah Khan made up new kinds of ragas and found ways to play music that hadn't been done before.

Exam Tip: Look for information in the passage that supports both options in a 'Both A and B' choice.

In spite of having travelled all over the world – Khansaab as he is fondly called-is exceedingly fond of Benaras and Dumraon and they remain for him the most wonderful towns of the world. A student of his once wanted him to head a shehnai school in the U.S.A., and the student promised to recreate the atmosphere of Benaras by replicating the temples there.

But Khansaab asked him if he would be able to transport River Ganga as well. Later he is remembered to have said, “That is why whenever I am in a foreign country, I keep yearning to i see Hindustan. While in Mumbai, I think of only Benaras and the holy Ganga. And while in Benaras, I miss the unique mattha of Dumraon."

Question 1. To Bismillah Khan, Benaras and Dumraon remained ..........
A. the most important towns.
B. the most sacred towns.
C. the most wonderful towns,
D. the most inspired towns.
Answer: (C) the most wonderful towns,
In simple words: Bismillah Khan thought Benaras and Dumraon were the most amazing towns in the world to him.

Exam Tip: Pay close attention to the exact adjectives used in the passage to describe a feeling or opinion.

Question 2. A student of Bismillah Khan wanted him to ..........
A. stay on in the U.S.A. for ever.
B. teach him various raagas.
C. head a shehnai school in the U.S.A.
D. Both 'A' and 'B'
Answer: (C) head a shehnai school in the U.S.A.
In simple words: Bismillah Khan's student wanted him to lead a shehnai school in America.

Exam Tip: Distinguish between specific requests and general opportunities when selecting an answer.

Question 3. From the reply to the lucrative offer of his student, we can learn how much Bismillah Khan..........
A. loved playing on shehnai.
B. loved his students.
C. missed Benaras and Dumraon.
D. was devoted to music.
Answer: (C) missed Benaras and Dumraon.
In simple words: His answer showed how much he longed for Benaras and Dumraon.

Exam Tip: Analyze character responses to infer underlying emotions or motivations, especially when a direct statement of feeling isn't provided.

Question 4. While being in a foreign country, Bismillah Khan yearned to ..........
B. leave that place as fast as possible.
C. return to India.
D. visit that place quite often,
Answer: (C) return to India.
In simple words: When he was in other countries, Bismillah Khan really wanted to go back to India.

Exam Tip: The word "yearned" strongly indicates a desire for return or longing, helping to choose the correct option.

Answer the following questions in three to four sentences each:

Question 1. How did 'pungi' transform into a Shehnai?
Answer: The 'pungi' musical instrument was prohibited because of its loud and unpleasant sound. However, a 'nai' (barber) modified and improved it. He played it for the first time in the Shah's private room. Therefore, it became known as 'Shehnai' (meaning 'Shah's instrument' or 'royal pipe').
In simple words: The pungi was banned for its bad sound. A barber changed it, making it better. He played it for the Shah, and it became known as the Shehnai.

Exam Tip: When explaining a transformation, highlight the key factors: the problem, the person who made the change, and the new outcome or name.

Question 2. Who had brought shehnai to the classical stage ? What was he honoured with ?
Answer: Ustad Bismillah Khan was the one who introduced the shehnai to the classical performance stage. He started learning the delicate details of shehnai playing under the instruction of his maternal uncle Ali Bux. He was given many significant awards, including the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan.
In simple words: Ustad Bismillah Khan brought the shehnai to classical music, learning from his uncle. He received top honors like the Padma Shri, Bhushan, and Vibhushan.

Exam Tip: When asked about honors, list the specific awards mentioned in the text for a complete answer.

Question 3. Why did Bismillah Khan refuse to start a shehnai school in the U.S.A. ?
Answer: Bismillah Khan declined to establish a shehnai school in the U.S.A. because he felt he could not reside outside India. He deeply cherished Benaras and Dumraon and would miss them whenever he traveled abroad. His strong attachment to his homeland prevented him from accepting the offer.
In simple words: Bismillah Khan wouldn't start a shehnai school in the U.S.A. because he loved India, especially Benaras and Dumraon, too much to live anywhere else.

Exam Tip: Clearly state the reason for the refusal and connect it to Bismillah Khan's deep attachment to India and specific places.

Question 4. Why did emperor Aurangzeb ban the playing of pungi in the royal residence ?
Answer: Emperor Aurangzeb forbade the playing of the pungi in the royal palace because it produced a sharp and unpleasant noise. He considered it more of a noise-maker than a musical instrument. Its shrill sound made it unsuitable for royal settings.
In simple words: Emperor Aurangzeb banned the pungi in his palace because it made a loud, bad noise. He saw it as a noisemaker, not a musical instrument.

Exam Tip: Always state the specific reason for a ban or decision as mentioned in the text, focusing on the quality or characteristic that led to it.

Question 5. What is the difference between a Pungi and a Shehnai ?
Answer: The difference between a Pungi and a Shehnai can be seen in their shapes and the sounds they create. A Shehnai is longer and wider than a pungi. The pungi makes a shrill, unpleasant noise, while the shehnai produces a soft, pleasing sound. This makes the shehnai much more melodic.
In simple words: The Pungi and Shehnai differ in shape and sound. The Shehnai is longer, wider, and has a soft, sweet sound, unlike the Pungi's shrill, unpleasant noise.

Exam Tip: When comparing two items, use comparative language (e.g., "longer than," "while") and clearly highlight the distinguishing features of each.

Question 6. How do we know that the sound of Shehnai is considered auspicious ?
Answer: We know that the Shehnai's sound is considered fortunate because it is played in temples and is a necessary part of all sacred events, such as weddings. Its presence signifies good luck and positive beginnings in these important ceremonies.
In simple words: We know the Shehnai's sound is lucky because it's played in temples and is a must-have at all important events like weddings.

Exam Tip: Provide specific examples (temples, weddings) from the text to support claims about cultural significance or auspiciousness.

Question 7. What were the recurring themes of Bismillah Khan's music ?
Answer: The repeated themes in Bismillah Khan's music were the connections between people and the flowing waters of the Ganga. He truly believed that Benaras and Dumraon were the most wonderful towns in the whole world. These elements greatly influenced his musical compositions.
In simple words: Bismillah Khan's music often focused on human relationships and the flowing Ganga. He saw Benaras and Dumraon as the best places on Earth.

Exam Tip: Identify the core inspirations or subjects that appear repeatedly in an artist's work, as these form the "recurring themes."

Question 8. How did 'pungi' get its new name ? What was it ?
Answer: The pungi was changed and improved by a barber, and this was greatly liked by the emperor. Since it was played for the first time in the Shah's chamber by a 'nai' (barber), it started to be known as 'Shehnai.' The new name reflected its refined sound and royal association.
In simple words: A barber changed the pungi, and the emperor liked it. Because a 'nai' played it first in the Shah's room, it was named 'Shehnai'.

Exam Tip: Link the origin of the new name directly to the specific events and people involved, as provided in the text.

Question 9. What place did Shehnai have in the past ? What place has it now?
Answer: In earlier times, the Shehnai was a part of the traditional group of nine instruments found at royal courts. Back then, it was used in temples and weddings. However, now it is also used in classical concerts, showing its wider acceptance and popularity.
In simple words: Before, the Shehnai was a royal court instrument, played in temples and weddings. Now, it's also played in classical concerts, showing its broader use.

Exam Tip: When asked to compare past and present, clearly state the roles or uses for each time period.

Question 10. When and how did Bismillah Khan get his big break ?
Answer: At the age of 14, Bismillah Khan went with his uncle to the Allahabad Music Conference. There, Ustad Faiyaz Khan praised his efforts and encouraged him to work hard. He achieved his major breakthrough when All India Radio in Lucknow opened in 1938. He quickly became a frequently heard shehnai player on the radio.
In simple words: Bismillah Khan got his big break at 14 at the Allahabad Music Conference, where Ustad Faiyaz Khan encouraged him. His career took off with All India Radio opening in Lucknow in 1938, making him a popular radio shehnai player.

Exam Tip: Specify both the time (age, year) and the event (conference, radio opening) when describing a significant career breakthrough.

Question 11. Where did Bismillah Khan play the shehnai on 15th August 1947 ? Why was the event historic ?
Answer: On 15th August 1947, Bismillah Khan performed the shehnai from the Red Fort. India gained its freedom on this day, making the event historic because Bismillah Khan was the first Indian to greet the nation with his shehnai. His audience included important figures like Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, who gave his famous speech 'Tryst with Destiny.'
In simple words: Bismillah Khan played the shehnai from the Red Fort on August 15, 1947. This was historic because he was the first Indian to greet the newly independent nation, with leaders like Nehru listening.

Exam Tip: Connect the specific action (playing shehnai) with the historical context (India's independence) and mention key figures to fully explain its significance.

Question 12. Why did Bismillah Khan regularly go to the nearby Bihariji temple in his childhood and what did he earn ?
Answer: At the age of 5, Bismillah Khan used to visit the Bihariji temple nearby to sing Bhojpuri 'chaita' regularly. For his sweet singing, he would get a 'laddu' weighing 1.25 kg from the local Bhojpuri king. This was a valuable prize for a young boy.
In simple words: As a child, Bismillah Khan often sang Bhojpuri 'chaita' at the Bihariji temple. For his singing, he earned a 1.25 kg laddu from the local king.

Exam Tip: Include the specific details of what he sang ("Bhojpuri 'chaita'") and what he earned ("laddu weighing 1.25 kg") for a precise answer.

Answer the following questions in five to six sentences each:

Question 1. '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 Ali Bux in the lives of Evelyn Glennie and Bismillah Khan.
Answer: Teachers play a vital role in shaping us into better individuals, both personally and professionally. Ron Forbes truly understood Evelyn's deep love for music. He taught Evelyn the fine points of hearing music not through her ears, but through her whole body. He showed her how to feel the vibrations in her hands and various leg parts to identify the pitch. Therefore, he helped her become a more musical and self-assured person. Bismillah Khan's teacher and guide was his maternal uncle, Ali Bux. Bismillah was captivated whenever Ali Bux played the Shehnai. As a child, Bismillah would go with his maternal uncle to the Vishnu Temple of Benaras, where Ali Bux was employed to play the Shehnai. Bismillah picked up the subtle skills of Shehnai playing and practiced for many hours on the banks of the River Ganga. He achieved excellence only because of his uncle and mentor.
In simple words: Teachers help students find their hidden talents. Ron Forbes taught Evelyn to feel music through her body, making her confident. Ali Bux, Bismillah Khan's uncle and teacher, guided him to practice and become a Shehnai master, showing how vital mentors are.

Exam Tip: For justification questions, provide clear examples for each mentioned person (Ron Forbes, Ali Bux) and explicitly link their actions to the development of the pupil's potential.

Question 2. Give a brief character sketch of Ustad Bismillah Khan.
Answer: Ustad Bismillah Khan was a Shehnai expert of great national and global recognition. He was an outstanding musician. Ali Bux, his maternal uncle, helped him achieve mastery in music. Bismillah Khan introduced the Shehnai to the classical stage. He practiced for many hours and worked very diligently to reach perfection. His melodious music made him the first Indian to welcome independent India. Ustad Bismillah Khan created many new 'raagas.' He received numerous awards, including the 'Bharat Ratna.' He was a true nationalist who declined many invitations to settle abroad. He was a genuine artist but a humble man, and he had great regard for Hindustani Classical Music.
In simple words: Ustad Bismillah Khan was a world-famous Shehnai master, perfected by his uncle. He brought Shehnai to classical music, practiced tirelessly, and was the first Indian to greet independent India with his music. A humble patriot, he created new 'raagas' and won many awards, including the Bharat Ratna.

Exam Tip: In a character sketch, include key personal traits (humble, patriotic), major achievements (Bharat Ratna, classical stage), and significant influences (Ali Bux), drawing details directly from the text.

Question 3. How did the young Bismillah develop his interest in Shehnai?
Answer: Bismillah was fascinated watching his uncle practice the Shehnai when he was just three years old. He was deeply captivated by the music of the Shehnai. Soon, Bismillah began accompanying his uncle, Ali Bux, to the Vishnu Temple of Benaras, where Bux was employed to play the Shehnai. Bismillah acquired the delicate skills of Shehnai playing and practiced for many hours on the banks of the River Ganga. The subjects of his music were greatly influenced by the sounds of the Ganga's flowing water. At the age of 14, Bismillah accompanied his uncle to the Allahabad Music Conference, where Ustad Faiyaz Khan patted his back, which motivated and encouraged him to strive harder.
In simple words: Young Bismillah was captivated by his uncle's Shehnai playing at age three. He accompanied his uncle to the temple, learning and practicing by the Ganga, which inspired his music. At 14, Ustad Faiyaz Khan's praise at a conference further encouraged him.

Exam Tip: Trace the development of interest chronologically, highlighting early exposure, mentorship, practice environment, and specific events that fostered growth.

Question 4. How was Bismillah Khan's music recognized internationally ?
Answer: Bismillah Khan was renowned not only in India but also globally. He promoted the Shehnai at an international level by taking part in the world exposition, the Cannes Art Festival, and the Osaka Trade Fair. He became the first Indian to be invited to perform in the United States of America. He became so well-known internationally that an auditorium in Tehran was named after him, "Tahar Mosiquee Ustaad Bismillah Khan."
In simple words: Bismillah Khan's music gained international fame by his participation in global events like the Cannes Art Festival and Osaka Trade Fair. He was the first Indian invited to perform in the U.S.A., with an auditorium in Tehran named after him.

Exam Tip: List specific international events, performances, and honors to demonstrate global recognition effectively.

Vocabulary And Grammar

Vocabulary

Fill in the blanks choosing the correct words given in the brackets:

Question 1. (1) (twice, accomplished, brought, most) Evelyn Glennie has already ..........a........... more than ..........b........... people ..........C........... her age. She has ........................ percussion to the front of the orchestra.
Answer:
a. accomplished
b. most
c. twice
d. brought
In simple words: Evelyn Glennie has already **accomplished** more than **most** people **twice** her age. She has **brought** percussion to the front of the orchestra.

Exam Tip: For fill-in-the-blanks, try each word in the blank to see which one fits best grammatically and semantically with the rest of the sentence.

Question 2. (2) (harder, confesses, enormous, workaholic) Evelyn ............a........... that she is something of a ......................... . "I've just got to work... often ...........c........... than classical musicians. But the rewards are .....d...........
Answer:
a. confesses
b. workaholic
c. harder
d. enormous
In simple words: Evelyn **confesses** that she is something of a **workaholic**. "I've just got to work **harder** than classical musicians. But the rewards are **enormous**."

Exam Tip: Look for context clues like surrounding words or phrases (e.g., "I've just got to work...") to help determine the most appropriate word for each blank.

Grammar

Rectify the errors in the passage:

Evelyn Glennie's lost of hearing, has been gradual. Her mother remembers to notice something was wrong where the eight-year-old Evelyn was waiting to play the piano. "They said her name and she moved.”

Question 3. Rectify the errors in the passage: Evelyn Glennie's lost of hearing, has been gradual. Her mother remembers to notice something was wrong where the eight-year-old Evelyn was waiting to play the piano. "They said her name and she moved.”
Answer:

But Evelyn was not going to give in. She was determined to lead a normal life but pursue her interest in music. One day she noticed a girl playing a xylophone and decided that she wanted to play it too. Most of the teachers discouraged her.
In simple words: The corrected passage shows the proper grammar and word choices for the original text about Evelyn Glennie.

Exam Tip: When rectifying errors, carefully check for common mistakes in grammar, spelling, punctuation, and word usage, and then rewrite the entire passage correctly.

Fill in the blanks using article(s), conjunctions(s) and preposition(s) at the correct places:

Question 1. (1) As .................... explains. It pour..................oh every part .......................... my body. It tingles in ......................... skin, my cheekbones ...................... .f. in my hair.
Answer:
a. for
b. in
c. of
d. the
e. and
f. even
In simple words: As **for** music, she explains, "It pours **in** through every part **of** my body. It tingles in **the** skin, my cheekbones **and** **even** in my hair."

Exam Tip: Practice identifying the correct prepositions (in, on, at, for), articles (a, an, the), and conjunctions (and, but, or) to ensure smooth and grammatically correct sentences.

Question 2. (2) It is intriguing to watch Evelyn function ........................... effortlessly........…………………………………………… hearing.............................. our two hour discussion she never missed............................ word. "Men ............................. bushy beards give me trouble.” “It is not just watching f...... lips, it's the whole face."
Answer:
a. so
b. without
c. In
d. a
e. with
f. the
In simple words: It is intriguing to watch Evelyn function **so** effortlessly **without** hearing. **In** our two hour discussion, she never missed **a** word. "Men **with** bushy beards give me trouble.” “It is not just watching **the** lips, it's the whole face."

Exam Tip: When filling in articles, prepositions, and conjunctions, read the sentence aloud to check for natural flow and grammatical correctness.

Punctuate the following passage:

Men with bushy beards give me trouble she laughed. It is not just watching the lips its the whole face especially the eyes. She speaks flawlessly with a Scottish tilt.

Question 1. Punctuate the following passage: Men with bushy beards give me trouble she laughed. It is not just watching the lips its the whole face especially the eyes. She speaks flawlessly with a Scottish tilt.
Answer: "Men with bushy beards give me trouble," she laughed. "It is not just watching the lips. It's the whole face, especially the eyes.” She speaks flawlessly with a Scottish tilt.
In simple words: The passage is now correctly punctuated, adding quotation marks, commas, and an apostrophe where needed.

Exam Tip: Pay close attention to quotation marks for direct speech, commas for pauses, and apostrophes for contractions or possessives when punctuating a passage.

Convert the following into Indirect Speech:

As for music, she explains, "It pours in through every part of my body. It tingles in the skin, my cheekbones and even in my hair.”

Question 1. Convert the following into Indirect Speech: As for music, she explains, "It pours in through every part of my body. It tingles in the skin, my cheekbones and even in my hair.”
Answer: As for music, she explained that it poured in through every part of her body. She added that it tingled in the skin, her cheekbones and even in her hair.
In simple words: The direct speech about music pouring through her body is now changed into indirect speech.

Exam Tip: When converting to indirect speech, change pronouns (my to her), tense (pours to poured), and reporting verbs (explains to explained/added) while maintaining the original meaning.

Rewrite as directed:

Question 1. (1) This aspiring musician faced a bigger challenge than most. (Change the Degree.)
Answer: Most did not face so big a challenge as the aspiring musician (did).
In simple words: The sentence is rewritten to compare the musician's challenge to others, changing the degree of comparison.

Exam Tip: When changing the degree of comparison, ensure the meaning remains identical while using different comparative structures (e.g., positive, comparative, superlative).

Question 2. (2) Her hearing was severely impaired as a result of gradual nerve damage. (Use 'Because of'.)
Answer: Because of gradual nerve damage, her hearing was severely impaired.
In simple words: The sentence is rephrased to use "Because of" to show the reason for her impaired hearing.

Exam Tip: When directed to use a specific phrase, integrate it smoothly into the sentence, often at the beginning or as a connecting clause, without altering the core meaning.

Question 3. (3) Everything suddenly looked black. (Turn into Negative.)
Answer: Suddenly nothing looked normal.
In simple words: The sentence is changed to a negative form, meaning that things no longer appeared normal.

Exam Tip: To convert to a negative, identify the key positive idea and express its opposite, often using words like "nothing," "no," or "not."

Question 4. (4) She never looked back from that point onwards. (Turn into Affirmative.)
Answer: She always looked forward from that point onwards.
In simple words: The sentence is changed to a positive statement, showing she consistently focused on the future.

Exam Tip: To change a negative to an affirmative, find the positive equivalent of the negative statement, such as changing "never looked back" to "always looked forward."

Question 5. (5) She had decided to make music her life. (Turn into Complex.)
Answer: She had decided that she would make music her life.
In simple words: The sentence is changed into a complex sentence by adding a dependent clause starting with "that."

Exam Tip: To make a sentence complex, introduce a dependent clause using a subordinating conjunction (e.g., that, which, when, if, because) while ensuring it logically connects to the main clause.

Question 6. (6) If you work hard and know where you are going, you'll get there. (Use ‘Unless'.)
Answer: Unless you work hard and know where you are going, you'll never get there.
In simple words: The sentence is rewritten using "Unless" to show that hard work and clear direction are necessary to achieve your goals.

Exam Tip: "Unless" introduces a condition that, if not met, leads to a specific outcome. Ensure the outcome in the rewritten sentence is the logical negative consequence of the "unless" clause.

Question 7. (7) When she plays the xylophone, she can sense the sound passing up the stick into her fingertips. (Make it Simple.)
Answer: While playing the xylophone, she can sense the sound passing up the stick into her fingertips.
In simple words: The sentence is simplified by removing the complex clause structure and using a participial phrase.

Exam Tip: To simplify a complex sentence, reduce clauses to phrases or single words, often by converting a dependent clause into a participial or infinitive phrase, while retaining clarity.

The Sound Of Music Summary In English

Part I: Evelyn Glennie Listens To Sound Without Hearing It

Evelyn Glennie Listens To Sound Without Hearing It Summary:

Evelyn Glennie lived in Scotland. Since she was a child, she really loved music. She wished to make music her profession, but sadly, she lost her hearing when she was just eleven. However, she did not give up hope. Ron Forbes, a percussionist, noticed her talent and told her to feel sound waves differently, not just with her ears, and she learned how. She put in a lot of effort and became skilled at playing the xylophone. When she was sixteen, she travelled across the U.K. She tried out for the Royal Academy of Music and got one of the best scores ever there.

Slowly, she went from playing with orchestras to doing solo shows. She was skilled at playing around 1000 different percussion instruments. She received numerous awards, but stayed very modest. Apart from her usual performances, she offered free concerts for deaf children. She became a great role model for people with disabilities. She showed them that anyone can achieve anything if they truly desire it and put in the effort.

Part II: The Shehnai Of Bismillah Khan

The Shehnai Of Bismillah Khan Summary:

Emperor Aurangzeb prohibited the musical instrument 'Pungi' because of its loud and displeasing sound. Actually, it was seen more as a noisemaker than a proper music device. A barber from a family of skilled musicians changed and improved it. He performed it inside the king's private room. The emperor liked its sound so much that it became part of the 'Naubat' ensemble. Because it was played by a 'Nai' (barber), it started being called 'Shehnai'.

Usually, it was performed in religious places and for all good family events. Its tune was considered very lucky. However, people saw it as an incomplete instrument, unable to create its own complex melodies. But Bismillah Khan changed this common belief.

Bismillah was part of the Benaras tradition of music. He came into the world on March 21, 1916, in Dumraon, Bihar. When he was just five, he often went to the Bihariji Temple to sing Bhojpuri 'Chaita' songs. Because of his beautiful singing, he would get a large sweet from the local Bhojpuri ruler. At six years old, he relocated to Benaras. There, with help and teaching from his mother's brother, Ali Bux, he began to learn the subtle parts of playing the shehnai. He usually spent much of his time practicing near the Ganga River.

The sounds of the Ganga River's moving water greatly influenced his music's themes. He received the award for best performer at the All India Music Conference in Allahabad in 1930. He was given national honors such as the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan.

India's top civilian honor, the Bharat Ratna, was given to him in 2001. He was asked to perform the shehnai from the Red Fort walls in 1947, being the first Indian to welcome newly independent India with his music. He also received numerous global accolades. He was the first Indian to perform at the Lincoln Central Hall in the United States. A performance hall in Tehran was named 'Tahar Mosiquee Ustaad Bismillah Khan' in his honor.

Bismillah truly loved Benaras and Dumraon. He turned down a student's proposal to live in the U.S.A., since he did not want to be far from Benaras and its sacred Ganga river for too long. He also entered the world of movies. His music featured in two films. His song 'Dil ka khilona hai toot gaya' from the film 'Goonj Uthi Shehnai' was a massive hit. However, he could not connect with the fake glitz of the cinema industry. To him, music was his very essence and existence.