RJA #3b: Research Topic Focus

The topic of learning a musical instrument in a notation-based or an aural-based setting could spark many discussions. One being is learning how to read and write music really a necessary skill? The answer is yes an no. I know that in a modern western style ensemble it is imperative that you know how to read notated music because usually you will have to have the music prepared before you even practice or audition for a part. If you did not know how to read music then you would have nothing prepared and would not get the part or hired again for a part, no matter how skilled or talented a player you are. But in other ensembles such as African drumming, there is no notated music and therefor you just have to know (by memory) patterns and rhythms you have learned. If you are relying on notated music then you will have trouble performing in said ensemble.
Another sub-topic could also be is it better for solidifying skills to learn aurally or off notated music? Well, again it comes down to the setting. If you do not need to read notated music for the ensemble then you skills need to be solidified in an aural fashion for the student to better be able to perform in that setting. If the student is performing in a notation-based ensemble then learning how to visualize patterns and differences on a page is very important. But even in that situation, learning how to play scales and different physically challenging attributes of the instrument by memory or 'ear' is extremely helpful. So where is the line drawn.
Both in some cases no notation skills are needed but in most cases (if not all) aural skills are needed.