Technique is not an option, if you can’t play the notes, then you can’t play the music.
We practice technique on an instrument for one reason, that is so we can play the music.
The hours of practicing scales, thirds, intervals and yes producing a great tone on an instrument are required and not an option.
tech·nique /tekˈnēk/
*A way of carrying out a particular task, especially the execution or performance of an artistic work or a scientific procedure.
*Skill or ability in a particular field.
*A skillful or efficient way of doing or achieving something