Most people (including a number of musicians) seem to forget that there's a major difference betwen being able to 'read' music [Which I can] and play a particular instrument at the same time.

For example [scuse me if this is too basic], middle C is splap bang in the middle of the treble clef - and the 88 key piano. But on a clarinet or flute it's not in the 'middle'. And on a guitar, middle 'C' can be played in about 6 different places - same note !

My point is... saying that one can read music does not necessitate the abilty to play directly from it. I can read music, but not well enough [any more] to 'sight-read' for a piano, or any other instrument I now play. Playing is now done mainly by ear, and yes... improvising is a no-brainer once you've learnt a few basic pentatonic major and minor scales plus the blues scale. I have no trouble doing that, and most rock/country lead guitar [my main instrument now] is pentatonic based.

Can I do that on the keyboard. Well, NO ! Not yet, but I'm working on it..
Regards,
Steve

[This message has been edited by S0C9 (edited 02-07-2003).]