Italian Fencing Schools
Italian fencing schools teach what is known as the Italian school of swordsmanship. Italian fencing differs from modern, or French fencing, in that it focuses on longer-distance attacks while French takes advantage of stronger and shorter takings. Hand positioning, body stance and footwork also differ. The French form focuses on athleticism and the Italian on grace and stylization. Developed in the 1400s and evolving until the 1900s, Italian fencing endures today on its own accord.
-
San Jose State Fencing Program
-
Founded by Maestro William Gaugler in the late 1970s, the San Jose State Fencing Masters Program is located in San Jose, California. This program is part of San Jose State University and is open to both current university students as well as the public. The classical Italian method used at the school is also used by the Military Masters School of Rome. Students take one class each semester, which usually meets for five hours on the weekend. To be certified, each student must complete a minimum of one year of study in Instructor of Arms. Two higher levels of certification are also available. A student can complete two further years of study in Prevost at Arms and three more years of study in Master at Arms. Students may stop after any year of study if they do not wish to be certified at a higher level.
Northwest Fencing Academy
-
Located in Eugene, Oregon, Northwest Fencing Academy hosts after-school classes for children and preteens, and teen and adult classes in the evenings. Classes start with the basics, teaching the Italian form, blade handling skills and control, and then move on to more advanced work. Friends and parents are welcome to view all classes, and you can purchase all necessary gear on-site. The school also specializes in Beginning through Advanced Armizare (Italian for traditional martial arts) courses, which include dagger play and buckler work.
-
Haverford Fencing
-
The fencing team at Haverford College in Pennsylvania has met great success. Coach Chris Spencer guides both the men and women teams. Avid fencers who wish to continue their craft often consider Haverford as a college, as they can further improve their passion while still earning a more mainstream college education. Haverford is a member of the National Intercollegiate Women's Fencing Association, which offers invitationals and annual championships for those currently attending collegiate fencing schools such as Haverford.
Academia Greco
-
Founded in 1878, Academia Greco is located in Rome, which is undoubtedly one of the more reliable locations in the world to learn proper Italian fencing technique. Both children and adults from all over the world come to study and compete at Greco, and American fencing students who choose to go abroad to hone their skills know this establishment well. Classes and tournaments vary, and knowing Italian certainly doesn't hurt. You can contact Musumeci Greco through his website (see Resources).
-
