When you sing with a group of people, you learn how to subsume yourself into a group consciousness because a capella singing is all about the immersion of the self into the community. That's one of the great feelings - to stop being me for a little while and to become us. That way lies empathy, the great social virtue.

The quote "When you sing with a group of people, you learn how to subsume yourself into a group consciousness because a capella singing is all about the immersion of the self into the community. That's one of the great feelings - to stop being me for a little while and to become us. That way lies empathy, the great social virtue." by Brian Eno explores the deep, transformative experience of singing together in a group. Eno emphasizes the idea that when individuals sing a capella, which is singing without instrumental accompaniment, they must blend their personal identities into the collective voice. The act of singing together creates a shared consciousness, where personal egos are set aside in favor of a unified community experience.

Eno’s reflection on the power of group singing highlights the concept of immersion—the idea that participants must allow their personal identity to dissolve temporarily into the collective. This process leads to a shared sense of belonging and connection, where the boundaries between individual and group become less distinct. The feeling of moving from "me" to "us" is described as a profound emotional experience, as it fosters a sense of unity and collective purpose.

The quote also points to empathy as a key result of this shared experience. Eno argues that by temporarily setting aside one's individual self, and becoming part of a larger group dynamic, individuals cultivate empathy, which is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. This, according to Eno, is one of the most important virtues in building strong social bonds and fostering a sense of community.

In essence, Eno’s quote highlights the psychological and social benefits of singing in harmony with others. A capella singing becomes a metaphor for how individuals can transcend personal boundaries and connect on a deeper, emotional level, creating an experience where empathy and collective spirit thrive. This, for Eno, is one of the greatest aspects of shared musical performance and a powerful tool for nurturing social cohesion.