I agree with both Steve and David's statements. In the pop world, it is generally not necessary to play any piece of music note for note.

However many riffs and series of notes, both complex and simple, define a piece of music.

The more simplistic it is, the greater the need to play it note for note.

There is only one set of notes that defines Smoke On The Water. You don't need much ear training to duplicate that riff. Something like the opening riff to Riders On The Storm, on the other hand, is pretty complex to play if you are not a very skilled keyboard player. It does not lend itself to interpretation; otherwise, it just does not sound like Riders On The Storm.

The real reason for my question is that I am trying to make a decision if I should put in the work to learn to sight-read sheet music accurately and up to speed at this late date.

I can sit here for four or five days and learn Whiter Shade Of Pale note for note by ear. If that were the only song I ever wanted to learn, then by ear would be the fastest way. The issue is that I will want to learn other pieces of music note for note or at least the signature licks that define them in the future.

All of this is based on the even more basic question of whether I want to continue to be involved in music in the same way I have been in the past.

Most likely, I will acquire some new skills and continue with many of the old ones.

Then there is the possibility I will just go fishing...lol

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…”