He was also the only calypsonian vocalist of his generation who could read and write musical notation.
He never learned to read musical notation but always was interested in producing new sounds and samples.
This type of music, similar to tablature, was produced for those who could not read standard notation.
This allowed players who could not read standard musical notation to accompany hymns.
And the past has been kept fresh (especially for those who can't read musical notation) by recordings.
He could not even read musical notation, for he had never studied it, choosing instead to learn by ear.
Due to a poor education, the young Mingus could not read musical notation quickly enough to join the local youth orchestra.
He never completed his formal training, though, since he never became comfortable with reading musical notation.
His mother taught him to play the reed organ and to read musical notation.
Most point out that McCartney can't read musical notation and was aided by professional composers.