I'm enjoying this thread because 1) some of the thoughts are completely foreign to my experience and 2) some of the thoughts are identical to what I've experienced, just never been able to articulate .

kat, I love the Tai Chi example. I've never enjoyed solo performing, as a matter of fact, was paralyzed with stage fright a couple of times. But I've experienced a wonderful feeling when accompanying a great musician or playing in an ensemble. I don't think this feeling is unique to me or just a manifestation of my particular personality. It's probably a universal feeling.

Dave, I love the Britten quote. I've heard it said by conductors and opera company "suits", but I never knew it originated with Britten. As you know from the PalTalk sessions, I'm a very appreciative audience.

KingBrilliant, can the composer, performer, audience all be the same person? I'm thinking... We need some help from our more articulate catters. It seems to me that we're talking about different things here. If I express my innermost creative feelings through song, I really don't care if anyone hears it...but then, I can't imagine truly enjoying anything that I can't share. hmmmmmmmmmmmmmm...