Nah, I think that Ted is right....and just think, you are reading THIS, and it has 26 letters. Music only has 7. I certainly am not gifted, and not well known for patience, but am slowly getting it down. One thing that really helped me, was to make business sized flash cards. I flip thru them when stopped in traffic, and during odd moments. Really helps alot. Don't have to "read" the mnemonic before figuring out what the note is on the staff. Counting out loud is how i figure out the melody. Can't do it in a group situation yet, but have only been studying for about 6 months. My time will come, i'm sure.