Just a quick point. After last night's second practice/dinner, I am reconfirmed in my belief that learning by rote is a powerful way of learning music. Although it can be difficult and frustrating for the most part, it is through this discipline that one can fully internalize a song.
I remember my days in Wibijazzn' when I would learn songs and parts through rote. I remember how painful it felt when I was having a hard time to get it. Eventually after practicing it over and over again, it became second nature to me.
I guess it only makes sense that we learn music similar to how a baby learns how to speak.
