Not Against Notation

Contrary to what it may seem I am not opposed to music notation, any more than I am opposed to written language. Both come in handy in many ways - they are, in fact, literally indispensable. But I am opposed to the automatic connection of the visual elements of music notation with a motor response that can entirely bypass the ear. In many cases the student is actually encouraged to disregard the sound in the interests of keeping a beat, for example.