Classical Fencing
What is classical fencing?
Classical fencing is the art and science of the sword, starting first with the tool by which we teach; the foil. The the words of the great Maitre Louis Rondelle, “A classical fencer is one who observes a fine position, whose attacks are fully developed, whose attacks are marvelously accurate, parries firm and repostes executed with precision.” We train for the duel (of which will never come in these moderns times), under the complete understanding that “points” do not matter - but rather, the most important rule is to hit and avoid being hit yourself.
What does the winston-salem fencing academy teach?
We teach fencing as it was taught predominately in the 19th and early 20th century. All students start with the foil (French fleuret, or the Italian fioretto). After proficiency with this weapon, they can move to weapons more-closely resembling the real thing, such as: the smallsword, rapier and the Italian dueling sabre. Currently rapier training is not being provided.
ETIQUETTE OF FENCING
The learning of fencing is both a fun and serious endeavor. A certain level of maturity must be present in the pupil, therefore (after prior experience) I’ve set the minimum age to be that of ten years old. Of the list of rules, there are three main rules that everyone must follow:
Never aim your weapon at anyone not wearing a mask. Always carry your foil with the point down, as if you had it sheathed by your side.
Never bully, insult or use profanity in the Salle.
Never fence with anger in your heart.
LOCATIONS
MILLER PARK
The Winston-Salem Fencing Academy offers private, one-on-one session with a student on every Sunday. During certain parts of the year, other days may become available. On good weather days, lessons will be held at Miller Park (the concrete platform near Trail #1).
On rainy or cold days, we will use the Odd Fellows Building located at 422 North Trade Street (3rd floor)*.
