"Just play it for me, Mama."

At age six, or was it five, I eagerly began piano lessons with my mother. She gave up on me after only a few sessions. We locked horns. I didn't understand why she became angry with me at the time. I thought I was pleasing her with my ability to imitate what she would play for me. She insisted I read the music. Her music degree didn't embrace or even acknowledge students who played by ear.

"Just play it for me, Mama," I begged. At first she did.

Do you think printed music played expertly by a trained musician is still judged superior to music played by ear? I'd love to hear your comments, experiences.