Yes Mario, F#

Yes, Mike, I agree that almost all pro studios require the studio musicians to be able to read standard notation and most generally understand NNS, and TAB. Many can also play very useful parts using only their ears. Those that can not read will not get hired to begin with in most cases. I have actually never been in a studio where people could not read, even the drummers. The exception to that was with some really old blues players.

Generally speaking, studio musicians are some of the most educated and knowledgeable musicians around.

Many people, even guitar players, can read standard notation and play by ear. The two things are not mutually exclusive. Those abilities are very commonly used in a studio situation. Many times people have asked a studio musician to play something off the top of their heads. Not everything that gets recorded was planned out in detail on paper before the session.

I can say for sure I am not likely to sightread guitar music for fun. I assume some people do because for some people the only way they can play is to read.

It is normally necessary to be proficient in music theory to work as a studio musician. It is not necessary to know any theory to play music and get paid to play in a bar for example. The Royal Albert Hall...well that is another thing entirely. Context...

Billy

“Amazing! I’ll be working with Jaco Pastorius, Charlie Parker, Art Tatum, and Buddy Rich, and you’re telling me it’s not that great of a gig?
“Well…” Saint Peter, hesitated, “God’s got this girlfriend who thinks she can sing…”