To Read or Not to Read

Music is, in general, a “felt activity”. Yet, there is an insistence from music teachers all over that students learn to read music. So what’s the deal? Should we read, or not? 

There are certainly different perspectives on this, so let’s take a look at how reading music could help you.

Helps you to learn

I’ve sat in lessons with many students who just don’t “hear it.” I can demonstrate the groove, pattern, or rudiment forwards and backwards, but they just don’t seem to catch on. Sometimes, some kind of visual aid helps, and gives them something to use for individual practice. After all, I can’t be there during their practice time to show them how it works; but if I can write it out, they have it indefinitely. 

For those without a teacher, there is a wealth of information available in books. If you’re looking for new concepts to enliven your playing, or if you’re just curious, it’s an easy $20 away. If you are able to read music, you have access to all of the resources that have ever been published for relatively little cost. 

Helps you communicate with others

Rehearsals are vital for the success of any musical group. It can be a struggle to explain how a song goes without a common language, so having a way to communicate with each other can be very helpful. If everyone is aware of certain musical terms, it can give them that common language and help practices go more smoothly.

It can also benefit the band members to have a way to send ideas to each other. Knowing how to read a chart sent by one of your band members can save a lot of time during rehearsal. There is no need to teach parts to each other, since they already practiced on their own.

Helps you professionally

If your aim is to get work as a musician or be hired on with a group, being musically literate can be extremely helpful, especially if you get a last minute call for a gig. Professionally, reading music is a standard of the industry. In a jazz big band, it’s expected for you to sit and read a chart; routine, even, to sight read on a gig. In musical theater pit orchestras, players receive a score ahead of time to practice, or again may sight read for a gig. In classical groups, reading is paramount. In many professional scenarios, reading music is an expectation, so for those trying to break into the gigging scene it could prove a valuable asset.

Why not?

“But what about_________ and _______?? They don’t read and they’re famous!” 

This is a valid point. But what’s stopping you from learning it? 

“I’ve played in lots of bands, and I don’t know anything about reading music.”

I applaud you. Have you missed other opportunities because of it?

“I don’t want to be locked in or restricted by what’s on the page.”

It won’t, unless you let it. Discipline sets you free.

“It’s just confusing, I can’t do it.”

Maybe you’ve told yourself this lie and never really tried. I think you can.

People come up with many reasons not to learn reading music, but the truth is that there are more benefits than not. It can definitely be an intimidating prospect, but if you’re able to read this blog, rest assured, you're able to read music as well. Even if you prefer to play by feel without sheet music, it can at least be a useful skill to have in a pinch. 

As always, it’s totally up to you based on what you want out of your musical experience. If you want to improve your skills, however, I can confidently say that building your musical literacy is one sure way to do it. 

Thanks for reading, and happy drumming!