The Music of TCC: Solo or Ensemble?

Have you heard, “I like doing T’ai Chi Chih (TCC) in a group, but I don’t like doing it alone”?

As a conservatory-trained musician, let me present an analogy. Before attending college, I struggled to practice piano between lessons, but I enjoyed playing for someone or with a group, and I relished singing in my school glee club. The experience of being in the collective current of energy felt gratifying and fulfilling. However, in practicing alone at home, concentration was difficult and freely flowing expression was elusive.

During my college years, practicing in an isolated room became urgent for my progress and learning. Meanwhile, rehearsing and performing in the school’s concert choirs was exciting and energizing, often providing a peak and flow experience.

Though not destined for the concert hall, I became grateful for those long hours in the practice room. That’s where I first discovered the joy and exhilaration of the piano, the music, and me, when I melted into the music itself. The “me” in the expression is vital, but the surrendering of self to the flow of the music gives it life.

Justin Stone used the phrase, “Enter the Cosmic Rhythm with TCC.” The flow and ease of a group practice can be a true joy. But Justin also said, “TCC is an inner discipline.” Nothing can replace the daily experience of one’s own practice.

“One day, you’re doing ‘this,’ and suddenly you realize, ‘Nobody is doing anything.’ T’ai Chi Chih is doing T’ai Chi Chih, and it’s a very ecstatic feeling.”

So, for me the preference of practice is both/and rather than either/or. However, if I miss the opportunity of solo practice, I am possibly missing the essence of TCC and the true feeling of joy through movement.