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Classes and Training
There are two basic ways people learn how to fence in Carolingia: formal
classes and individual instruction. Both methods are free and depend on the
availability of teachers and motivation of students.
Beginner Classes
These classes happen twice a year: once in the fall, and once
in the spring. They run for 8 consecutive weeks at the same time and place
as our general Sunday practice. The classes are
intended to build the foundation of body mechanics and bladework upon which
fencing is built. Lessons include footwork, parries, attacks, feints, off-hand
techniques, and more. Some fencers are ready to authorize (become certified
to fence at SCA events) by the end of it, while others need more practice
and instruction. We have a number of teachers and teaching assistants who
donate their time to the program; we try to rotate them through so they still
get time to practice their own fencing. See our Rapier
101 Syllabus for our current approach to these classes.
Intermediate/Advanced Classes
These occur on an ad-hoc basis whenever students express an
interest in learning a specific topic beyond basic single rapier. They are
generally announced in advance on the rapier mailing list and usually last
only a single session. Recent topics include intro to heavy rapier, dagger,
buckler, and timing.
Mentorship
We encourage new to seek out more experienced people from
which to learn one-on-one. This allows the student and teacher to tailor
the program to the student's needs and desires. Fencers who are willing to
be mentors should make this clear at practice, as should students who are
looking for mentors to adopt them.
Other East Kingdom Practices
If you are travelling in the East Kingdom, and want to find a fencing practice,
a list is being maintained on the East Kingdom
fencing web page.
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