Many skilled instrumentalists and vocalists learn and perform music without formal training in music notation. They might learn by ear, through rote memorization, or by developing their own systems for understanding and reproducing musical structures. Examples include traditional folk musicians, jazz improvisers, and self-taught popular musicians.
Aural learning can foster a deep intuitive connection with music, encouraging improvisation and creative exploration. Historically, many musical traditions relied primarily on oral and aural transmission, demonstrating that literacy in musical notation is not essential for musical expression. This method also allows musicians to bypass the often-complex process of sight-reading, focusing instead on the sonic aspects of the music.
