Q: Should I learn to read music?

The answer to this one depends on the player. You don´t have to but it can certainly help with more complex pieces. With guitar , we have tablature ( much easier to learn) which tells us which fret to play (and above it music notation if we want) . Writing music could be just as valuable because you feel more connected to it. With the guitar, there are often many ways to play the same piece so for more complex pieces we have to choose the best fit for our fingers. Some players can stretch more than others and might choose a different fingering.

I emphasise learning rhythm in my classes because it is the lifeblood and energy and one of the key ingredients in great music!!

If you don´t read music you will still develop your listening skills to make up for it!