The Spanish True School is a union of Aristotle and Violence. It is not just a tradition of swordplay but also intentionally designed for self-discovery and personal growth. This seminar will immerse the students in this unique European martial style with its own timing structure, counter-action theory, and science of swordplay.
This weekend-long seminar with Maestro Puck Curtis will happen on Saturday, November 15th and Sunday, November 16th at Metrowest Kung Fu in Maynard, MA.
DAY 1
We begin with a survey of the tradition as expressed by Carranza, Pacheco, and Ettenhard. Together we will start with simple concepts, explore the core actions of the tradition, and learn to use these actions in time under increasing pressure. We will meet all students where they are regardless of their experience level. Our goal is to develop some key Spanish skills and actions up to fighting speed. Even for a non-Destreza martial artist, learning these 'tretas' can provide new ideas and techniques that can build your game. Expect Defenses, Offenses, circular actions on the blade, bind changes, yielding defenses, and grappling at the hilts.
DAY 2
Our work continues with advanced topics. We will explore specific counters from Pacheco against Italian fencers and others. Next, we learn sword and dagger and apply this weapon combination in different contexts. For instructors, we will learn how we might use classical pedagogy to teach the Spanish tradition. Finally, we will host a shared live debug of fighting and work together to apply the tradition to the fencing that exists today.
📅 GENERAL SCHEDULE 📅
Here's how both days will generally run:
9:30am - 12:30pm - Training
12:30pm - 1:30pm - Lunch Break
1:30pm - 2pm - Lecture
2pm - 5pm - Training
🤺 ATTENDEE NOTES🤺
⚔️Please bring your regular HEMA or SCA fencing gear. Swords must be tipped with a blunt, such as rubber, leather, or molded, durable plastic (thermoplastic, 3D printed, etc.). Fencers with testicles need rigid groin protection. Indoor-only shoes, if you can, please.
If you need to borrow gear, please get in touch with the organizers ahead of time at
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🥪 Lunch is BYOB. There are several restaurants and eateries in walking distance of the area.
🫗 Bring any water and/or snacks you'll need for the duration of each day.
🚗 There is metered parking on the street, as well as a lot in the back.
Any other questions, email Justin at
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⚔️ ABOUT MAESTRO CURTIS ⚔️
Puck Curtis began studying historical fencing in 1992 and researching Spanish swordplay in 1994. He is the cofounder of the Destreza Translation and Research Project and the primary author of From the Page to the Practice – Fundamentals of Spanish Swordplay. Currently living in Folsom, California, he has taught historical fencing for over 20 years with a special focus on the Spanish traditions. He tested and received his certification as a Master at Arms before a traditional board of fencing masters with the San Jose Fencing Master’s program in 2008 and has expanded the tradition by examining a number of instructors, provosts, and fencing masters. In addition, he has presented seminars at major HEMA events, fought in numerous public exhibitions, and has served as a guest examiner for schools certifying historical fencing instructors.
You can read some of Puck's fencing musings on his blog
www.puckandmary.com/blog_puck/category/fencing/
⚜️ LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ACADEMIE! ⚜️
www.bostonacademiedarmes.com
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Also check out other Sports events in Maynard, Workshops in Maynard, Arts events in Maynard.
