I guess it depends on the sifu. My Shifu, like most, wants students who have been accepted as formal disciples to focus on what he is teaching. He doesn’t mind though if we explore a bit. As a true lineage holder for Yang Taiji, Master Cui has a responsibility to the art and to pass on the essence of it to his disciples.

We study from the teachers we do, usually because we feel they are the best we have found. Sometimes though it’s hard to remember there are other excellent teachers out there too. On the other hand, jumping from one teacher to another can teach you many things; however, each new teacher may be reluctant to pass on too much before they think you are ready, or if they think you’re going to leave soon.

John