Piano performers’ experiences of Tai Chi for physical comfort and mental well-being: a qualitative study
* By Peng Jin, International Journal of Qualitative Studies on Health and Well-being 21(1), * March 2026 *
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of this study was to explore piano performers’ experiences of practicing Tai Chi and their perceptions of how it supports pain relief, mental regulation, and performance-related control. Methods This qualitative descriptive study conducted semi-structured, in-depth interviews with five piano performers who had practised Tai Chi for at least 1 year. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using thematic analysis with iterative coding, grouping, and clustering to derive core themes. Results The participants reported integrating Tai Chi into daily warm-ups, practice breaks and pedagogical routines. Perceived benefits included reduced muscle tension and pain, improved bodily coordination and tone control through principles such as “lowering the shoulders and elbows,” and enhanced focus and emotional regulation before performance. Several participants described faster recovery from fatigue and increased efficiency during practice. Conclusions Tai Chi was described by participants as alleviating performance-related physical discomfort, supporting psychological calm, and improving aspects of pianistic control. While the findings are limited by the small sample, they suggest Tai Chi as a feasible adjunct for performers and teachers.
About the author(s)
Peng Jin
University of Minnesota Twin Cities (School of Music), 401 SE Main St, Minneapolis, USA
Peng Jin is a professional pianist from China. During that time, he won the first prize of 17-19 years old adolescent group China division in ninth Chopin International Piano Competition (Golden Ring). He subsequently won the first prize of advanced Chinese music works in the No. 18 Hong Kong-Asia Open Competition. In 2015, he won the second prize in the 7th U.S. United Young Musician International Piano Competition, and he joined the member of American Beacon Artists Association. In 2017, he has also won the third prize in the Asian Music Competition, and won the first prize of piano in No. 8 Asia Pacific International Arts Festival, and won the title of Art Nova. In 2021, he won the third place in the King’s Peak International Music Competition.
As a piano instructor, he has 10 years experience of one-to-one piano teaching in China and the U.S. He has developed creative ways to introduce the musical concepts and technologies to his students of all ages.
Dr. Jin earned a Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) in Piano Performance from the University of Minnesota and holds two Master of Music degrees in Collaborative Piano and Piano Performance. Dr. Jin’s research focuses on qualitative research, music and health, and piano performance.
