Private lessons

Personalized tai chi instruction to deepen your practice in Durham, NC

Private lessons are an essential part of studying Taijiquan. While group classes are an excellent way to learn the basic choreography of a form, individualized instruction is necessary if you wish to advance to higher levels. In a private session, a teacher offers personal attention and encouragement—helping you set goals, refine your movement, correct subtle errors, and get the most out of your practice.

A private session with a perceptive teacher is one of the best ways to accelerate your personal progress. This is particularly true for more experienced students: as devotion to taiji deepens and desire for improvement increases, students are expected to request periodic private lessons.

Our certified instructors, Violet Anderson and James Sutton, specialize in:

  • Wudang, Chen and WuHao Taijiquan (traditional long form and short forms)

  • Taiji weapons: sword (jian), saber (dao), spear (gun), fan and more

  • Interactive and Push hands (tui shou) for sensitivity, balance, and martial application

  • Taiji calligraphy and philosophy

Options and Rates

Private (1 student)Teacher's home or other convenient location$60/hour

Semi-Private (2 students) Teacher's home $45 each per hour

Groups (3+ students) Contact teacher for pricing

Corporate / Institutional Your workplace or venue $100 minimum (varies by group size)

Time over an hour is prorated at the hourly rate. Travel fees may apply for locations other than our Pavilion.

Payment Options

Cash (in a red envelope, traditionally) is preferred and should include your name and lesson date on a separate note. We also accept:

📧 Book Your Private Lesson →

Email mountainlaughing@gmail.com or text Violet at 919-923-4464

Book your private tai chi lesson

What You'll Gain

  • Targeted feedback on posture, alignment, breath, and intent

  • Customized curriculum based on your goals, experience level, and learning style

  • Accelerated progress in forms, weapons, push hands, or calligraphy

  • Deeper understanding of taiji principles and internal arts