THURSDAY, APRIL 29
 

7:30 PM – 10:00 PM

OPENING CEREMONIES
- Evening reception
- Speechifying, a few jokes, etc.
- Hall of Fame Award (Gary Torres Hall of Fame inductee)
- Special evening workshop

Mastering Tai Chi Video Production in the 21st Century
Instructor: Shifu David Dorian Ross

For the first time in the history of our event, the annual Zhang San Feng Festival will be “live streamed” to the internet, so folks from all over the world can catch a glimpse of all the fun! Overseeing this project will be David Dorian Ross, of the famed Gaiam tai chi instructional video series. In this entertaining talk, David will be giving everyone an overview of how the Festival live stream will be working this weekend. Along the way, Shifu Ross will expand his talk to include how budding videographers can create their own performance or instructional videos, together with how create their own video live feeds. Location selection, lighting, sound, camera angles, framing, scripting, voice over and soundtracks will also be discussed. Anyone with cell phone, video camera, flip cam or iPod will be able to join the fun with audience participation, and learn how to shoot your own video right in the workshop!

 

FRIDAY, APRIL 30
 

6:30 AM – 7:00 AM

Morning Meditation
Meditation will be led by Shifu Tina Zhang. Chairs will be available, as well as space for attendees to use meditation cushions. Participants are responsible for supplying their own cushions.

Morning Qigong
Morning Qigong will be led by Grandmaster Jianye Jiang. Each morning will offer a different type of qigong. Loose clothing should be worn.

 

7:00 AM - 8:30 AM: 
BREAKFAST

8:30 AM – 10:00 AM

Internal Arts 101: The Festival Gateway Seminar
Instructor: Shifu James Donnelly

There are two ways that a new beginner can attend the Zhang San Feng Festival. The first is to wander around dazed and confused, guessing at the meanings of the hundreds of terms and concepts thrown at you during the course of the weekend. The second is to attend A.S.I.A.’s basic training course and begin your adventure armed with everything you need to get the most out of your Festival experience! In this fast paced 90-minute workshop Shifu James Donnelly, director of the American Society of Internal Arts and the Zhang San Feng Festival, will teach you all the basics: What are the internal arts? What makes them different than all other martial arts? What is qi? What are meridians? What is the dantian? What is yi? These are just a few of the concepts addressed. You will learn basic history, theory and philosophy of the internal arts, including the esoteric Daoist connection. You’ll also review some of the core concepts and training methods shared by the primary arts (taiji, bagua, xingyi),  as well as some of the lesser-known variants. Related concepts including qigong, jibengong, daoyin and neidan will be explained. You’ll learn why “tai chi chuan” is often written as “taijiquan.” Vital terminology will be reviewed and included in handouts containing a glossary of terms and definitions, all serving as a roadmap to help navigate you in this weekend’s over 50 workshops. With a “question and answer” session to wrap things up, you’ll be “ultra prepped” for the rest of the weekend. Don’t miss this opportunity to arm yourself with the “Festival Cliffnotes,” so you can help out all the dazed and confused people that didn’t come! This is also great information for teachers to consider sharing with new students or visitors to their schools. All levels welcome.

Tuina Therapy for Healing Knees
Instructor: Shifu Pedro Cepero-Yee

Tuina is a centuries old body of knowledge whose earliest written record is found approximately 206 BC. Combining techniques of massage and acupressure, it has brought relief to millions of people in recent years. In this workshop you will examine one of the greatest problem area’s for practitioners of tai chi and the related arts - the knees. You will be taken on an examination of some of the most common disorders of the knees such as sprain and strain, meniscus tear, ligament injuries and tendonitis. You will learn how to treat these conditions with associated passive joint movement exercises.  You will also be taught powerful qigong exercises, designed to heal this most vital of joints. Join Shifu Pedro Cepero-Yee as he teaches you techniques you can use to heal yourself and others.

Curing your Stress: An introduction to the Buddhi
Instructor: Ven. Oceans of Wisdom

A religion that influences nearly every aspect of Chinese thought and culture, Buddhism forms a comprehensive system designed for the sole purpose of eliminating personal, social, and environmental stress.  In this workshop, Ven. Wisdom Sakya will introduce you to to the theory and methods for eliminating stress through an explanation of the three paths of practice that bring about the dissolution of stress; ethics (sila), meditation (samadhi), and wisdom (panna/prajna). You will learn about Buddhist karma, wholly different from the Hindu concept of karma.  Included will be a general history of Buddhism and its traditions, explanation of the theory and practice, and instruction in a Buddhist meditation with practice. When you are done,  you will have a solid foundation to start and maintain a beneficial meditation practice.  Participants are encouraged to bring meditation cushions to sit on as only a few will be available.  Using a chair is also fine.

Refining the Yang 24 Form
Instructor: Shifu Yuzhi Lu
The Yang style 24 form is the most widely practiced and taught tai chi form in the world today. Developed as a simplified version of the Yang long form, the Yang 24 form is enjoyed by millions as an easy-to-learn form with both health and martial benefits. In this workshop, Shifu Yuzhi Lu offers the benefits of her years as a teacher of physical education in China.You will learn the subtle nuances of the Yang 24 form, and discover its hidden techniques. Join Shifu Yuzhi Lu in this informative and enjoyable workshop that will help bring your tai chi practice to a new level. All levels welcome.

 

10:00 AM - 10:30 AM: 
MID MORNING BREAK

10:30 AM – 12:00 PM

12 Steps to Incredible Longevity With Jian Shen Fa
Instructor: Shifu John Green

Qigong, translated roughly as “energy work,” describes a body of practice which spans centuries and can be used to compliment any internal arts practice. While qigong is often viewed as a physical practice, some of the most powerful elements of internal qigong are its meditative components. In this workshop, Shifu John Green will teach you how to perform the powerful “Wuji Qigong,” also known as “Jian Shen Fa” or “Beautiful Body Method.” You will discover how to add this simple twelve step meditation to your practice. With this qigong, you will learn how to align your posture, open energy channels, and stretch the meridians. Joining Shifu Green as he take you on a journey to discover how to improve mind and body through this powerful energy work.

Mastering the Flow of Yang Style Taijiquan
Instructor: Shifu David Dorian Ross

Yang style taijiquan is the most widely practiced system of taiji practice in the world today. Founded by the legendary taiji master Yang Lu Chan, it is said by some to be the ultimate expression of taiji principles, wrapped in the power of softness. In this workshop, Shifu David-Dorian Ross, award winning tai chi instructor, author and television producer, will teach you the six principles of “flow,” that classic characteristic of taiji practice. You will examine its elusive and indefinable qualities, qualities exhibited by the true tai chi master. Beyond your tai chi practice, you will also learn how to apply these principles to your everyday life. Join Shifu David-Dorian Ross as he gives you the tools to refine your Yang style practice and to become “one” with the flow.

Experiencing the Energy & Power of Chan Si Gong
Instructor: Shifu Tina Zhuang

Silk-reeling is the basic element and special character of Chen Style Taijiaquan – the origin and source of all styles of Taijiquan. This core technique promotes health and fighting skills and builds various patterns of internal motions for all styles of Taijiquan. In this workshop Shifu Tina Zhang will teach you the principles of chan si gong. You will learn the five patterns of silk-reeling and understand how it increases energy in the body for internal health. You’ll also discover its martial applications and how this powerful practice can be applied to any style of taijiquan. Join Shifu Zhang and discover the unique beauty, and incredible power, weaving the threads of silk.  All levels welcome.

Navigating Safe Waters in a Sea of Change
Instructor: Doug Gray

As we face transition in our lives, our world and our environment, we find ourselves bracing for the future with uncertainty. Ancient teachings tell us we are facing a significant time in the history of our earth walk. The question is, “What should we do?” In this talk, Doug Gray, spiritual counselor and shamanic teacher, together with his wife, Fran Gray,offer their views of things to come, and what each one of us can do to make a positive contribution and live a happier, healthier life. Join Doug Gray for 90 minutes of entertaining thought and spiritual inspiration. Bring your life jacket, and a sense of humor. Come join us.

 

12:00 PM – 1:30 PM:
LUNCH

1:30 PM – 3:00 PM

Shaping The Wedge and The Ball of Jiulong Baguazhang
Instructor: Shifu Dale Dugas

Jiulong Baguazhang is a unique and powerful system of bagua that is taught with simple concepts and exercises that can be applied to many arts. One of the most effective concepts from the Jiulong system is the “wedge” and the “ball”. In this workshop, Shifu Dale Dugas of Coiling Dragon KUNGFU will introduce you to these simple but effective concepts. You will learn how train them for your own practice, and how to utilize them in both healing and self defense applications. Join Shifu Dugas he teaches you old school techniques for today’s practice.

Embracing the Vital Power of Yi Gun Gin (Muscle Tendon Changing)
Instructor: Dr. Gary Torres

Chinese history documents the existence of the muscle tendon changing qigong as far back as the Liang dynasty (502 a.d.). It was said that the diligent practice of Yi Gun Gin can transform men and women to superhuman levels, bestowing a health, strength and vitality of vast proportion. In this workshop, Dr. Gary Torres, Grandmaster of the renowned Peter Kwok lineage, will teach you this powerful qigong, kept secret for generations. You will discover how this qigong improves the circulation of Qi in the twelve primary Qi channels and the two major Qi vessels (Conception and Governing Vessels). You will be shown how training in this potent energy work, will strengthen your physical body, including muscles and tendons, and maintain the smooth circulation of Qi in the primary channels and the internal organs. Join Dr. Torres, as he gives you the key to unlocking your own unparalleled health and wellness with a qigong that can be added to anyone’s practice.

Intention Fist to Mind Intention Fist: Discovering the Yiquan in Your Xingyiquan
Instructor: Grandmaster Wang, Rengang

Known for both its simplicity, and its subtle complexity, xingyiquan is viewed by many as the most fearsome of the three primary internal arts. Known for its “no nonsense” approach to combat, it remains an art that can offer a lifetime of study. Yiquan, developed by the legendary xingyiquan master, Wang Xiangzhai, is the distilled “internal” essence of xingyiquan, a system of training that can be applied to any of the three internal arts but enjoys it’s most direction connection with xingyi. In this workshop. Grandmaster Wang, Rengang, third generation disciple of dachenquan (yiquan), will teach the connections between yiquan and xingyi. You will see how the five fists of xingyi, relate to the postures of yiquan, and how yiquan footwork, finds its roots in the stepping patterns of xingyi. Join Grandmaster Wang, Rengang in this fascinating study of the Yiquan / xingyiquan connection, and discover how you can apply yiquan to your own practice.

Chinese Yoga: Discovering The Ancient Principles of Healing Qigong
Instructor: Grandmaster Jianye Jiang

The earliest written evidence of yoga comes from seals discovered at several Indus Valley Civilization sites, seals dated approximately 3000BC. Anthropologists believe the practice of yoga itself is older still. What is also known that porous border that China shares with India, the home of yoga, has served as a rich gateway of knowledge and wisdom, as both cultures have shared their spiritual and energetic practices over the centuries. Thus Chinese yoga, the seed to today’s qigong was born. In this workshop you will discover the hidden foundation of Chinese Yoga, a practice that threads itself through all modern day Chinese energy work. You will learn exercises whose roots feed from the ancient past and extend into your very own practice. Join Grandmaster Jianye Jiang, a man who has dedicated his life to the study and development of some of the most powerful qigong sets in the country. Discover the power of Chinese Yoga as you explore the roots of your own practice.

3:00 PM – 3:30 PM:
MID AFTERNOON BREAK

3:30 PM – 5:00 PM


Mastering The Power of Lou Xi Ao Bu: Self Defense in a Single Move
Instructor: Shifu John Green

Locked within the recesses of taijiquan forms are countless self-defense techniques that include striking, joint locking, escape moves and throwing. In the hands of a true master even a single posture can offer a near endless array of self-defense options. In this workshop  Shifu John Green will introduce you to the spectrum of techniques hidden within “Brush Knee, Twist Step.” a common posture seen in nearly all tai chi forms. You will learn how this posture not only improves general balance and body alignment, but is a versatile self defense application.  You will be taught how to  understand the posture’s structural dynamics, while maximizing the effectiveness of the technique with partners and through multiple application scenarios.  Grounded in practical self defense, this seminar will add value and understanding to the Taijiquan practice of everyone, regardless of style. Join Shifu Green as he illustrates the hidden power of a single posture in the vast arsenal of tai chi applications.

Writing for the Martial Arts: What Every Word Warrior Needs to Know!
Instructor: Shifu Gene Ching

Powerful writing is crucial to the success of any school or business. It can make the difference between driving students to your school, and driving them away. In this workshop, Gene Ching, Associate Publisher of Kungfu Tai Chi magazine, will show you why the writer’s pen can be the most valuable weapon in your marketing arsenal. You will learn how to write magazine articles that publishers will want and readers can’t put down, and why a well-written article equals advertising that money can’t buy! You’ll also learn how to craft irresistible advertising copy that will attract people like a magnet to your magazine and newspaper ads, school website or newsletters, and how to avoid the mistakes and pitfalls that many writers make. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own writing ideas to share with the group, for some “on-the-fly” publishing advice during the question and answer session. Join Gene for this lively and entertaining workshop as he shares the secrets that every word warrior needs to know, whether they’re writing a quarter page magazine ad, or penning the great American martial arts novel!

Perfecting the Tai Chi Form of the Renowned Master Cheng Man Ching
Instructor: Shifu William C. Phillips

One of the most widely practiced tai chi forms in the world today is the 37-posture form of the legendary tai chi master Cheng Man Ching.  Created by Professor Cheng as a means of teaching the tai chi energies in a fast and efficient manner; it has produced some of the best push hands players in modern times, and was the vehicle used by the master himself to develop his renowned martial skills. In this workshop Shifu William C. Phillips, senior student of Master Cheng Man Ching, will provide his expertise in aiding students of the Cheng Man Ching form to refine the second third of the form. Beyond the postures, you will learn the points and principles Professor Cheng taught as crucial to good practice, and later, good push hands. The workshop will include an inspiring story or two about Shifu Phillip’s teacher, as well as a few “inner door” secrets that Professor Cheng taught to a few of his students. Knowledge of the Cheng Man Ching form is not necessary to benefit from the tips and tricks that Shifu Phillips will share - techniques that can benefit any tai chi form or style. Come discover this easy to learn form that is the pride and joy of Master Cheng’s worldwide lineage. All levels welcome.

Experiencing the Life Nurturing Power of Daoist Qigong
Instructor: Master Zhou Xuan Yun

The Chinese practice of qigong (energy work) has enjoyed wide-spread popularity in recent years, as practitioners have discover a number of the classical styles brought to the U.S. by some of China’s top masters. In the temples of China, qigong rises to an entirely new level, however, as an essential part of a life long daily practice. In this workshop, Master Zhou of Xuan Yun, ordained Daoist priest, will teach qigong as it is taught on Wundang Mountain. You will learn how to increase your qi circulation to promote greater health and stronger well being. Through gentle breathing techniques, combined with stretching and strengthening movements, you will discover how to stimulate your immune system, strengthen your internal organs, and enjoy a greater abundance of energy. Join Master Zhou, and experience the energy work of sacred Wudang.


5:00 PM – 6:30 PM:
DINNER

6:30 PM – 7:30 PM:
EVENING BREAK
7::30 PM – 10:00 PM

EVENING ACTIVITIES
- Evening reception
- A little more speechifying
- Keynote address
- Drumming circle (join in!)

KEYNOTE ADDRESS:

Possibilities As Vast As Space
Speaker: Ven. Oceans of Wisdom

Daoist and Buddhist practice, is often depicted as mutually exclusive of one another. Yet throughout the history of China, the two ancient practices blend like threads woven into a great  tapestry of thought and tradition. In his keynote address, Venerable Ocean of Wisdom Sakya will explore the relationships between these two ancient sources of wisdom and practice and show how each has influenced the other in complimentary ways. Join Oceans of Wisdom for an inspiring talk designed to show how every moment of our lives, whether they are considered joyful, or painful, are opportunities for awakening to the joy of our true being.

SATURDAY, MAY 1

6:30 AM – 7:00 AM

Morning Meditation
Meditation will be led by Shifu Tina Zhang. Chairs will be available, as well as space for attendees to use meditation cushions. Participants are responsible for supplying their own cushions.

Morning Qigong
Morning Qigong will be led by Grandmaster Jianye Jiang. Each morning will offer a different type of qigong. Loose clothing should be worn.

7:00 AM – 8:30 AM:
BREAKFAST

8:30 AM – 10:00 AM

Push Hands for Competition: Unleashing the Champion Within
Instructor: Shifu Avi Schneier

In recent years, push hands has enjoyed an exploding popularity among the large majority of tai chi practitioners. As a training exercise, push hands is a multipurpose tool designed to increase a students understanding of relaxation, rooting, listening, whole body movement and form applications. At the highest level of practice, champions are born. In this workshop Shifu Avi Schneier, a multiple tai chi champion and an international level judge of push hands competitions, will teach you what it takes to compete at any level. You will learn the fundamentals of competitive push hands preparations. You will be taught practice drills to give you the edge in the ring. Fixed, restricted and moving push hands will all be covered. Please note that this is an advanced workshop intended for those with some push hands experience under their belt. This workshop also serves as a small sampler for the post festival workshop for competitive push hands training, offered by Shifu’s Phillips and Schneier after the Festival. Join Shifu Schneier for this exhilarating opportunity to drive your push hands to new levels, and train your champion within!

Grasping the 18 Hands of the Lohan
Instructor: Shifu Dale Dugas

According to history, the legendary Da Mo (Bodhidharma), came to the Shaolin temple and saw that the monks had difficulty staying awake during prolonged meditation. To solve the problem, Da Mo eventually devised three distinct exercise sets, designed to strengthen the monks and increase their health. These exercises eventually formed the basis of what we now know as Shaolin kungfu.  In this workshop, Shifu Dale Dugas will teach you one of these powerful qigong sets, the “18 Hands of the Lohan.” You will receive step by step instructions for each posture and exercise. You will also learn how to use the system to improve your health, and increase your internal power. Join Shifu Dugas as he helps you grasp, the 18 hands of the Lohan.

Energy From the Circle: Discovering the Power of Cheng Style Baguazhang
Instructor: Shifu Tina Zhuang

Baguazhang, translated as “eight trigrams palms,” and is regarded as one of three primary internal arts, Characterized by training methods that focus on walking in a circle, the art was founded by the legendary Master Dong Hai Chuan, and disseminated through a small group of Master Dong’s students considered his chief disciples. Arguably, the most famous among these was Cheng Ting Hwa, whose legendary Baguazhang has been passed down through an ever-growing lineage of practitioners. In this workshop, Shifu Tina Zhang, co-author of “The Whirling Circles of Baguazhang,” and formal disciple of the renowned Bagua master Liu Jing Ru, will introduce you to classical Cheng style Baguazhang, known for its emphasis on circling and coiling. You will examine the eight basic palms training set used in the system. You will also discover a few of its self-defense techniques with hands-on practice. Join Shifu Tina Zhang for this fascinating look at this classical style of Baguazhang as you embrace the energies from the circle! All levels welcome.

Embracing the Power of the Praying Mantis: An Ancient Kungfu For Modern Times
Instructor: Shifu Wang, Rengang

Plumb Blossom Praying Mantis Boxing is one of the oldest of all the northern Praying Mantis styles. It is characterized by its use of both long and short boxing styles, fusion of both “hard” and “soft” techniques, and lightning fast movements. It’s spiritual essence is said to embody the “fearlessness” of the praying mantis, and some masters regard it as the “fourth” internal art. In this fascinating workshop, Grandmaster Wang, Rengang, will teach you some of the basics of this ancient style of kungfu. You will learn some of the basic stances and footwork. You will be taught core striking movements. You will also be drilled in combination attacks. This art has never before been taught at the Zhang San Feng Festival so don’t miss out! Join Grandmaster Wang, for this rare opportunity to experience the fearsome power of the majestic praying mantis!


10:00 AM - 10:30 AM: 
MID MORNING BREAK

10:30 AM – 12:00 PM

Traditional Shamanic Meditation and Teaching Ceremony
Instructor: Doug Gray

Traditional native American teachings are steeped in lore and tradition. Among those, no tradition has a greater depth of meaning than the shamanic meditation circle. In this gathering, Doug Gray, spiritual councilor and and shamanic teacher, will guide attendees through this traditional practice. Drum and sage will be used. Exercises will be taught to help bring balance into each person’s life. Join Doug Gray for an inspirational and uplifting experience.

Taking Flight With the Ancient Wild Goose Qigong Set
Instructor: Shifu Yuzhi Lu

The ancient Daoist masters sought to learn the secrets of nature through study and emulation. By adopting the energies and aspects of the world around them, they believed they could capture the essence of animals. In this workshop, Shifu Yuhzi Lu will teach you  how to capture the essence of the supple and energetic wild goose, with the Wild Goose Qigong Set. You will learn how ot use this set to open the joints and flush the meridians, providing an optimum  flow of qi. Join Shifu Lu as she teaches you this traditional Daoist qigong set of the Qing Dynasty, so you can add it to your own practice.

Embracing the Power of Daoist San Feng Taijiquan
Instructor: Master Zhou Xuan Yun

History states that the legendary Daoist hermit, Zhang San Feng, was inspired to create tai chi, while living in the misty forests of Wudang Mountain. From those ancient times, to present day, the temples of Wudang mountain have served to preserve the teachings of tai chi’s legendary founder. In this workshop, Master Zhou Xuan Yun (Mysterious Cloud), ordained Daoist priest from Wudang Mountain, will introduce you to the Wudang taijiquan, a taiji style unique to the temple. Through translation, Master Zhou will lecture on the history of Wudang taijiquan, and the daoist philosophy which serves as the systems foundation. You will learn how the priests of Wundang train, from their own method of zhang zhuang (standing meditation), to warm up exercises and form practice. A demonstration of 108 posture Wudang taijiquan will be performed. Attendees will then be taught specific postures and their martial applications. Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to train with a real Wundang priest, in the centuries old tradition of sacred Wudang Mountain.

Discovering The Ten Tigers of Hung Ga
Instructor: Shifu Pedro Cepero-Yee

Hung Ga is a close combat fighting art, designed to allow the practitioner the ability to fight in close quarters – such as an alleyway or crowded streets. With low stances (for a better center of gravity), circular blocks and strikes, and animal style fighting (dragon, snake, tiger, leopard and crane) Hung Ga is a swift, yet powerful martial art, superbly designed for self-defense. In this workshop, Shifu Pedro Cepero-Yee  will teach you the Ten Tigers of Hung Ga Kung Fu, including their powerful combat applications. Taken from the world famous signature set of the “Tiger Crane Double Shape Fist” system, this form is renowned for developing fighting prowess, as well as solid and powerful controlling techniques. Join Shifu Cepero-Yee as he introduces you to one of the most popular of the souther Chinese fighting styles, specializing in close range fighting.

12:00 PM – 1:30 PM:
LUNCH

1:30 PM – 3:00 PM

Form is Emptiness, Emptiness is Form
Instructor: Ven. Oceans of Wisdom

One of the more enigmatic traditions of Buddhism is called Dhyana, of which Zen is the most commonly known form in the West.  Less commonly known is Dhyana Buddhism originated in India and traveled to China where it would become known as Ch’an. (Zen is actually a translation of the word Ch’an.) In this workshop, Ven. Wisdom you will teach you about the complex spectrum of Dhyana traditions. You will learn how to apply that knowledge through powerful meditative techniques born of the Dhyana tradition, techniques designed to reveal the ultimate nature of mind and reality.  Participants are encouraged to bring meditation cushions to sit on as only a few will be available.  Using a chair is also fine.

Mastering the Cleansing Power of Xi Sui Jing (Bone Marrow Washing)
Instructor: Dr. Gary Torres

Chinese history documents the existence of the bone marrow washing qigong as far back as the Liang dynasty (502 a.d.). Some considered Xi Sui Jing a compliment to Yi Gun Gin, a deeper, more complex qigong designed cleanse the body after it was strengthened by Muscle Tendon Changing. In this workshop Dr. Gary Torres, Grandmaster of the Peter Kwok lineage, will teach you how to use Xi Sui Jing to cleanse your body of contaminants, slow the aging process, and increase your health and vitality. You will discover how this powerful energy work is used to fill up the Qi in the “eight extraordinary Qi vessels,” reservoirs that regulate the body’s primary qi channels and organs. You will learn how to “wash the marrow” to produce fresh healthy blood, and bestow upon you, a new glow of health and vitality. Join Dr. Torres, as he teaches you how to reclaim your youth, and to improve your quality of life, with a qigong that can be added to any practice.

Assuming The Animal Forms of Wu Mei Pai
Instructor: Shifu Ken Lo

Wui Mei Pai is a rare and powerful martial art, named for a legendary martial artist from the Ming Dynasty. A daughter of an imperial general, Wu Mei fled after her family was murdered during an invasion of the Manchus. She was given sanctuary at the White Crane Shaolin Buddhist Temple, where she became a nun. Over the course of time, she taught her system to the monks of the temple, who later preserved the art as part of the temple kungfu. In this workshop, Shifu Ken Lo will teach you how this rare system of kungfu utilizes the uniquely powerful characteristics of each of twenty different creatures, great and small. You will learn both martial applications, and the mental and spiritual energies that help move you in the form. You will experience supple formlessness of the art, and discover it’s explosive speed and power. Join Shifu Lo for this fascinating session where you will learn to become one with the powerful animals of Wu Mei Pai.

Tai Chi Push Hands: Crossing The Bridge to Combat
Instructor: Shifu William C. Phillips

Tai chi push hands, or tui shou,  is a pre-cursor to sparring, the next step beyond the forms and basic training. Within its movements are hidden all the answers to tai chi’s most fundamental energies. Played by a true master, push hands can seem magic with the slightest movements hurling the largest opponents through the air like leaves on the wind. Like any martial skill, however, it must start with a good teacher and a good foundation. In this workshop Shifu William C. Phillips, senior student of the legendary tai chi master Cheng Man Ching, will teach you the basics of this classic training exercise designed to hone your tai chi energies and skills. Working with a partner you will learn how to “listen” to another’s energy and feel their center of gravity even as you become aware of your own. Join Shifu Phillips as he teaches you how to take your practice to the next level, taking you over the bridge to combat.


3:00 PM – 3:30 PM:
MID AFTERNOON BREAK

3:30 PM – 5:00 PM

Taijiquan Da Lu: Experiencing Grand Push Hands
Instructor: Shifu John Green

Da Lu, or Grand Push Hands, combines a vast array of combat techniques found in the “four directions” of taijiquan, with the principles of “song, ting jing, root and structure.” Armed with this knowledge, the tai chi practitioner soon discovers the hidden power with his or her art. In this workshop Shifu John Green will help you unlock the power of your art. You will learn the classical footwork patterns of da lu, with a focus on four of the core techniques of the art - pluck, split, elbow and shoulder. Through partner drills you will discover a host of applications, while learning footwork variations, agile body movement and sensitivity training. Grounded in the practicality, you will discover how to use the energies of taijiquan for modern day self defense.  This workshop will benefit everyone, regardless of style. Join Shifu Green as he helps you unlock the door to the next level of your tai chi training.

Exploring the Powerful Form of the Legendary Sun Lu Tang
Instructor: Shifu Avi Schneier

Among the internal arts masters of Chinese history, none was more accomplished than the legendary Sun Lu Tang. A master of all three schools of the internal arts: xingyi, bagua and taiji, he was one of the Republican era’s most prolific authors, writing definitive works that shaped the thinking of the day with his keen insights and views. Among his many accomplishments was the development of his own tai chi form, the Sun form, which is generally regarded as one of the five major styles of tai chi. In this workshop, Shifu Avi Schneier will introduce you to Sun style tai chi, a form that combines elements of tai chi, bagua and xingyi into what is, arguably, one of the most unique of the tai chi families. Shifu Schneier will teach you what sets the Sun form apart from all other forms. You’ll discover the innovations Sun Lu Tang made, by combining the three internal schools into a blend of martial arts and alchemy that created a style of tai chi unmatched in history. Don’t miss this rare glimpse into Sun style tai chi under the guidance of a master. All levels welcome.

Discovering Shaolin Kungfu for Health
Instructor: Grandmaster Jianye Jiang

Legend states that Da Mo, also known as Bodhidharma, traveled to Shaolin Temple and, once there, realized that the monks suffered great difficulty in staying awake through long hours of meditation. Eventually, Da Mo arrived at the solution - a series of health exercises what would eventually serve as the foundation of Shaolin kungfu, the oldest existing martial art style in the world. In this workshop Grandmaster Jianye Jiang, prolific teacher who has produced over 300 educational DVD’s during his career, will teach some of the basics of Shaolin kungfu. With a focus on health, you will learn warm up and conditioning exercises that have been handed down for centuries, providing greater health and longevity to millions of monks through the generations. Join Grandmaster Jiang, as he teaches you these vital exercises that can be added to any practice?

Work and Play: Embracing the Two Sides of Taijiquan
Instructor: Shifu David Dorian Ross

Taijiquan is an art of deliberate contradictions.  It is defined by the interplay of opposites: yin and yang; substantial and insubstantial; opening and closing. Another set of opposites often overlooked is “work” and “play.”  In this workshop, we will go over the distinctions between “learning, practicing and performing.” We will then go over the “lian gong” – the essential “work” of taijiquan that every serious student should do on a daily basis. Finally, we will learn several exercises that will break open the essence of “play” in your taiji practice.


5:00 PM – 6:30 PM:
DINNER

6:30 PM – 7:30 PM:

EVENING BREAK

7:30 PM – 10:00 PM:

EVENING ACTIVITIES
- Evening reception
- Friendship Parade
- Still more speechifying
- Friendship Demonstrations


SUNDAY, MAY 2

6:30 AM – 7:00 AM

Morning Meditation
Meditation will be led by Shifu Tina Zhang. Chairs will be available, as well as space for attendees to use meditation cushions. Participants are responsible for supplying their own cushions.

Morning Qigong
Morning Qigong will be led by Grandmaster Jianye Jiang. Each morning will offer a different type of qigong. Loose clothing should be worn.

 

7:00 AM – 8:30 AM:
BREAKFAST

8:30 AM – 10:00 AM

Tui Shou to Shuai Jiao: Giving Yourself the Edge in Push Hands
Instructor: Shifu Dale Dugas

Shuai Jiao is a grappling martial art, developed in the Zhou Dynasty, between the 12th and 13th centuries. Considered the oldest existing Chinese martial art in the world, it is comprised of throwing techniques, strikes, blocks, joint locks, and attacks on pressure points. Tui Shou taijiquan, better known as push hands, is a precursor to sparing which is designed to train listening skills and control of opponents. In this workshop, Shifu Dale Dugas of Coiling Dragon Kungfu will teach you how to merge the ancient techniques of Shuai Jiao with the complex skills of push hands, to give you the edge in any situation. You will learn how to blend throws, strikes and joint locks, with your listening skills. Join Shifu Dugas in this “hands on” workshop that marries the oldest martial art, with the most complex.

Intention Fist to Grand Ultimate Fist: Discovering the Yiquan in Your Taijiquan
Instructor: Dr. Gary Torres

Yiquan is essentially formless, containing no fixed sets of fighting movements or techniques. Instead, focus is put on developing one’s natural movement and fighting abilities through a system of training methods and concepts, working to improve the perception of one’s body, its movement, and of force. It is sometimes considered the true “internal” portion, of the internal arts. While the basics of training yiquan have begun to enjoy wide-spread popularity, putting it to use in combat is not often clear to most. In this workshop Dr. Gary Torres, Grandmaster of the Peter Kwok lineage, will teach you to translate yiquan, into taijiquan. You will learn how the eight deceptively simple, yet powerful, postures of yiquan transform into the postures and numerous applications of taijiquan. You will learn how to apply the internal power of yiquan to your practice, no matter your tai chi style. Join Grandmaster Torres, as he makes the elusive connections from yiquan, to taijiquan, showing you a facet of your practice you’ve never seen.

Mastering the Art of Tea Ching
Instructor: Shifu David Dorian Ross

T’ai Chi and Teaching: two separate arts with two different paths of mastery.  Too often an expert in a specialized field makes the mistake of assuming that his or her mastery will naturally mean that they can teach others, often with disappointing results.  This workshop will cover modern theories of adult education (what is learning), the different stages of learning (the taxonomy of psychomotor development) and the “Whole-part-whole” method of teaching.  We will also go over some of the current opportunities for teaching, particularly in the Fitness industry and adult on-going education programs in colleges and community centers.  What do you need to know to get in, and how do you create a popular class?

Experiencing the Subtle Energies of Wuji Eight Section Brocade
Instructor: Grandmaster Jianye Jiang

At the Daoist heart of all internal arts, wuji describes nothingness - the state before .... somethingness. At the very moment the thought of movement is formed, the nothingness of wuji becomes the somethingness of tai chi. In this workshop, Grandmaster Jianye Jiang,  prolific teacher and researcher of the internal arts,  you will teach you how to embrace the state of wuji within this powerful qigong. You will experience the Daoist heart of this form, and learn how to extend your own health and longevity with its use. Join Grandmaster Jiang, as he brings you from wuji to tai chi, all in the space of 90 minutes.

 

10:00 AM - 10:30 AM: 
MID MORNING BREAK

10:30 AM – 12:00 PM

Standing at The Cross-Roads of Principle
Instructor: Shifu Avi Schneier

At the heart of taijiquan are the tai chi classics, essays of the old masters that outline the arts sacrosanct rules of principle and structure. These rules form a common thread that weaves together all the various styles of tai chi, and tai chi forms. Yet, at the same time, each form contains its own unique variations. It is understanding these differences that can lead the student to extraordinary advances in their own practice. In this workshop, Shifu Avi Schneier, international judge and competitive tai chi champion, will take you on an examination of three of the most popular styles of tai chi: Chen, Yang and Sun. You will learn how each style layers upon the universal principles, its own unique expressions. You will have the opportunity to sample each form, and “taste” the subtle differences in their energies for yourself. Finally, with a greater understanding of how the tai chi principles can be shaped, Shifu Schneier will show you how to apply your new understanding to your own form. Join Shifu Schneier at the crossroads of principle, and learn how to take your own practice in an entirely new direction.

Exploring the Rare and Powerful Wu Style Taijiquan
Instructor: Shifu Tina Zhuang

In the world of taijiquan, there are five styles or families that are taught as the primary systems of taiji. One of those systems is known as the “Wu Style” of Wu Jian Quan.  This style traces its creation to Master Wu’s father and teacher, the legendary Quan You. In this workshop, Shifu Tina Zhang, co-author of Classical Northern Wu Style Tai Ji Quan – The Fighting art of the Manchurian Place Guard, will share with you the basics of this rare and powerful style of tai chi. You’ll discover what sets it apart from the other styles, how it focuses on the taijiquan principles, and how it distributes the power of yin and yang in health and martial applications. Join Shifu Tina Zhang for this captivating look at one of the more rare, and most refined taiji (tai chi) styles, and discover what sets it apart as one of the highest levels of internal arts training! All levels welcome.

Discovering the Power of Tui Shou Dachengquan: Finding the “Internal” in Your Push Hands
Instructor: Grandmaster Wang, Rengang

Push Hands is a practice more often thought of as a part of tai chi training, than in any other art. It is a stage of development that serves as a pre-cursor to sparring, and is designed to help develop sensitivity to the movements of one’s partner. In this workshop Master Wang, Ren Gong, 3rd generation lineage holder of dachengquan (yiquan), will teach you dachengquan’s own version of push hands. While very similar to tai chi push hands, the push hands of dachengquan has its own flavor, focus and characteristic, taking a more internal approach. In two person drills, you will learn the arts “one and two handed training drills.” Your training will also include offensive and defensive techniques. Join Master Wang to discover this unique style of push hands that can give you that extra edge.

Chadao: The Way of Tea - Becoming Part of the High Skill of the Chinese Tea Ceremony
Instructor: Shifu Ken Lo

Many Westerners have heard of Cha No Ryu, the Japanese Tea Ceremony. Few realize, however, that the Japanese ceremony is derived from the much older Chinese Tea Ceremony. The art of drinking and serving tea plays a major cultural role in China. It inspires poetry and songs. Mutual love of tea cements lifelong friendships. For centuries, the ritual of preparing and serving tea has held a special place in the hearts and minds of Chinese aristocracy, court officials, intellectuals and poets. In this fascinating workshop, Sifu Ken Lo will treat you to the rare and beautiful Chinese Tea Ceremony. You will learn how the ceremony emphasizes the tea, rather than the ceremony itself -- what the tea tastes like, smells like, and how one tea tastes compared to the previous tea, or in successive rounds of drinking. “Ceremony” doesn’t mean that each server will perform the ritual the same way; it is not related to religion. Each step is meant to be a sensory exploration and one of appreciation. Using the Ming Dynasty method, you will learn how to steep hand picked whole tealeaves into a remarkable beverage with multiple layers of fragrance and taste. You will discover that beyond the tea itself, the ceremony is actually a lesson in taste, ethics, culture and civility. Sifu Lo will also be serving rare collector’s teas, commercially unobtainable. Come discover a high art that contains the poetry, calligraphy, painting, and music of the Chinese literati scholar, all present in this extraordinary presentation. NOTE: Due to the length of the ceremony, this workshop is a two-hour presentation, scheduled to run into the beginning of lunch, so as not to interfere with workshops to follow.

IMPORTANT: Those who wish to participate in the tea ceremony will be charged a nominal fee of $10.00 to help offset the high cost of the rare teas served. Observers of the ceremony may view for free. All levels welcome.

12:00 PM – 1:30 PM:
LUNCH

1:30 PM – 3:00 PM

AFTERNOON ACTIVITIES

Becoming One With The Dao of Taijiquan
Instructor: Master Zhou Xuan Yun

Note: This final, very special workshop of the day, will combine a talk on Daoism, with an authentic Daoist closing ceremony for the
Festival, as it would be performed at Master Zhou’s temple. Don’t miss this unique opportunity, if only for a few briefs moments, to find yourself transported to the misty peaks of Wundang Mountain!

At the core of taijiquan rests the unknowable Dao. While taijiquan, also known as “Grand Ultimate Fist” is nearly one thousand years old, its philosophical foundation, Daoism, is over four thousand. While most most in this country know the Dao through books and magazine articles, the priests of Wundang walk with the Dao as a way of life. In this fascinating workshop, Master Zhou Xuan Yun will deliver a lecture through translation, on the teachings his Daoist temple. You will learn to see the Dao through the eyes of a Daoist priest. You will learn how to embrace the Dao, to follow the “natural way.” You will learn about the different types of Daoist practices in China, and how a true Daoist dynamically moves with the phases of nature. It is this harmony found in the “great ultimate” process, that makes a balanced, interlocking and natural world possible. Join Master Zhou for this lecture on how you may better live the way of the Dao, as you travel your own life’s path.


FESTIVAL CLOSE