The Sound of Music

By Deborah Cowley

Deborah Cowley is a Canadian writer and journalist known for her works in both fiction and non-fiction, with a particular interest in biographical and travel writing. She has authored and co-authored books on a wide range of subjects, often highlighting inspiring individuals and global cultures. “The Sound of Music” is a biographical story about the life of Evelyn Glennie, a world-famous, hearing-impaired percussionist. The story recounts Evelyn’s journey of overcoming her disability, beginning with her loss of hearing at the age of 11 and her determination to pursue a career in music. With her extraordinary sense of rhythm and touch, she learns to “hear” music through vibrations, becoming a celebrated musician. The story emphasizes themes of perseverance, passion, and the power of the human spirit to overcome obstacles.

Q: How old was Evelyn when she went to the Royal Academy of Music?

Ans. Evelyn was 17 years old when she went to the Royal Academy of Music.

Q: When was her deafness first noticed? When was it confirmed?

Ans. Evelyn’s deafness was first noticed when she was 8 years old. It was confirmed by the time she was 11 years old.

Q: Who helped her to continue with music? What did he do and say?

Ans. Ron Forbes, her percussion teacher, helped Evely continue with music. He encouraged her to feel the music through vibrations instead of hearing it. He told her to sense the vibrations in different parts of her body.

Q: Name the various places and causes for which Evelyn performs.

Ans. Evelyn performs in concert halls around the world, at prestigious events, and for various charitable causes. She also plays in hospitals, schools, and prisons, aiming to inspire and bring joy through her music.

Q: How does Evelyn hear music?

Ans. Evelyn hears music through vibrations. She developed this unique ability after losing her hearing by feeling the vibrations of sounds through different parts of her body. By placing her hands on the walls of concert halls or her feet on the floor, she can sense the pitch, rhythm, and volume of the music. Her acute sense of touch allows her to distinguish the nuances of various instruments and melodies. Evelyn’s approach to music goes beyond traditional hearing. She perceives the vibrations with such precision that she can perform complex compositions and collaborate with orchestras worldwide. Her extraordinary method of experiencing music has not only allowed her to excel as a musician but also to redefine the understanding of hearing and perception in the field of music.