It seems to me that, in short, reading can expand your musical world but if you're a one-band player or a blues standard specialist then reading is not essential.
That's been my take on it Poll.......I never bothered to learn to read in my younger years, but I do regret it now. For the situations I found myself in, in the past, it just wasn't neccessary. I've always been a 'one trick pony' rock drummer and have just never encountered a situation where I
needed to read. That said however, I'm slowly rectifying that and I'm going through basic reading now.....along with a lot of other things I never pursued when I was younger.
However, I fully get the point that those who
can read are trying to make here. It's a valuable skill and if you're looking to pursue drumming as a career, it makes perfect sense to learn as much you possibly can in order to pave your own way.
I do dispute the call that those who can't/don't, are "idiots" though....in fact, I don't care for that connotation at all....especially from a teacher, for christ sake.......what message does that actually send? But at the end of the day, I've always marched to the beat of my own drum and care not for what anyone thinks of the path I've chosen. I'm not a pro...never have been, never will be, but I'm experienced enough as both a one trick pony and a human being, not be rattled by sheer elitism, expressed for the sole intent of being elitist.
But like Jay, I'll echo the calls to any younger members who may be pondering the question....yes, learn to read. I didn't and wish I did!!