Recall (Part I – Evelyn Glennie)
At what age did Evelyn Glennie lose her hearing?
By the age of 11, she had lost her hearing completely.
Which instrument is Ustad Bismillah Khan associated with?
The Shehnai
What is the common theme between Part I and Part II?
Music as a universal language that transcends barriers.
What literary device is used in describing Evelyn’s 'listening through her body'?
Metaphor
If Evelyn Glennie had given up due to her disability, how would music have lost out?
The world would miss a symbol of courage and inclusivity in music.
Who recognized Evelyn’s potential and encouraged her to pursue music?
Ron Forbes
Where did Bismillah Khan give his first big performance?
The All India Radio, Lucknow, in 1938.
How does Evelyn Glennie break stereotypes?
She shows that even without hearing, one can be a world-class musician.
In Part II, the shehnai is described as replacing the pungi. What is this device?
Historical Reference/Allusion
Why is Bismillah Khan considered a bridge between tradition and modernity?
He modernized the shehnai while keeping its classical roots intact.
How does Evelyn “hear” music?
By sensing vibrations through different parts of her body.
Which historic event did he perform at, making him world famous?
India’s Independence Day (15th August 1947) from the Red Fort.
How does Bismillah Khan’s life highlight Indian culture?
He popularized the shehnai worldwide and upheld India’s traditional music.
How does the writer use contrast in Part I?
Contrasts Evelyn’s deafness with her extraordinary musical ability.
What does Evelyn’s success teach us about education and opportunity for differently-abled people?
That with support, accessibility, and determination, talent can flourish.
What was Evelyn’s first big achievement in music?
She secured a place at the Royal Academy of Music, London.
Name one foreign country where Bismillah Khan performed.
The USA (at the Lincoln Center), Iran, or any of his global tours.
What lesson do we learn from both Evelyn and Bismillah Khan?
Dedication, perseverance, and passion can lead to greatness.
Give one example of imagery from the chapter.
She could sense notes moving up the stick into her fingertips.
How do Evelyn and Bismillah Khan show that passion is stronger than obstacles?
Evelyn overcame deafness; Bismillah resisted glamour abroad to stay true to his roots.
Why is Evelyn Glennie an inspiration to differently-abled people?
She proved disability is no barrier; with determination, one can achieve greatness.
What honor was Bismillah Khan awarded for his contribution to music?
Bharat Ratna (India’s highest civilian award).
How does the chapter celebrate diversity in music?
By showing both Western (Evelyn) and Indian classical (Bismillah) traditions.
How does the author’s tone differ in Part I and Part II?
Part I is inspiring/personal; Part II is cultural/historical.
If you had to compare their lives to today’s youth, what lessons would be most relevant?
Hard work, valuing culture, resilience, and the importance of pursuing passion over shortcuts.