Well, you have probably seen my posts on the bowie knife material I like to peruse, but beyond books and videos there is still that most traditional of all formats - personal instruction. Sure, it is best to go to an instructor and get a hands-on lessons. Now, the challenge is finding such an instructor accessible and available. The former condition may simply be insurmountable for many folks, but the latter doesn't need to be. This is where the wonders of modern technology come in.
In my case, I attended a joint seminar on bowies that was held some time ago by Bill McGrath and Bryan Cannata, each showing a different approach. McGrath is comes from the Pekiti Tirsia Kali background, but Cannata is from the decidedly western standpoint, with background in European fencing and study under James Keating. Although he, too, has an FMA dimension to him, when it comes to bowies Cannata is decidedly "traditional".
Next thing you know, I reached out to him and asked if he did private classes online...and he did! No need to say, I jumped at the opportunity, scheduled a lesson - and he delivered! Great personality, knowledgeable, honest, really willing to help students in their quest. Being that I had already had some experience, he asked whether I was looking for instruction in the "classical" material, or what is referred to as the vulgate style. I opted for the latter, because there are really not many sources on this material.
Bryan's instruction is based on the loose progression of teaching mechanical fundamentals of particular techniques covered, and then putting them into logical combinations, which he calls "plays", roughly akin' to what McLemore terms engagement sets. He really has the whole online teaching mode dialed in, so the lesson felt great and went smoothly. All in all, an overall highly recommended experience.
That said, Cannata will conduct an open enrollment online seminar next month - January 2024 - so there is a great opportunity to start the year in a great way.
For more detailed information you can go to the event page on Facebook, or contact him directly via email medusasoutheast[at]gmail.com (don't want to send spammers to him).
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