Introduction
We are a satellite school under the guidance of John Ray sensei, a nanadan Kyoshi (7th degree "black belt" instructor) who has studied this art for over 20 years, 10 of which were in Japan. For more information about our sensei and his school, The Dojo, in Denton, Texas please visit his web site.
The style Iaido we practice is Muso Jikiden Eishin Ryu (MJER). The 22nd head master of our ryu is Ikeda Takashi-soke. We are members of MJER Seitokai Association of Japan, and our ryu is a member of the Zen Nihon Iaido Renmei (ZNIR, All Japan Iaido Federation). Our school is located in the Clear Lake area Southeast of Houston, Texas. See What is Iaido? elsewhere on this page for more information on Iaido.
Location
We have classes at the Clear Lake Aikido & Judo Dojo which is located about halfway between Houston and Galveston between Texas Highway 3 and Interstate 45.
Other arts taught at the Clear Lake dojo include Aikido, Judo, Jujutsu, and Jyodo. Contact Richard Porro sensei via web site for information about these classes.
Fees
As of 2007 November 1 the monthly fee for Iaido classes is $79/month, plus $40/year for insurance. In addition there is a yearly fee for membership in the MJER Seitokai Association of Japan.
Equipment
Prospective students need to consult with the instructor before purchasing equipment. Not all equipment advertised as suitable for Iaido are appropriate for MJER.
Beginners should wear loose comfortable clothing; gradually acquiring hakama, uwagi, obi, and iaito as finances permit. Loaner obi and bokutou (wooden katana) are available for use in class.
No sharp sword may be used in class. Eishin-Ryu forms are intricate and fraught with danger for a beginner using a sharp sword. Bokutou (wooden katana) or iaito (non-edged aluminum alloy sword) are permitted. Talk with the instructor or other senior members before buying a sword.
Other Information
Classes are normally led by , who is a godan (5th degree "black belt"), has been practicing MJER Iaido since May 2000, travels to Denton for training with John Ray sensei, and also attends seminars and special events (see Upcoming and Past Events elsewhere on this page).
Acceptance into the class is at the discrection of the instructor.
Students must be at least 13 years old.
Classes are generally quiet and the training is intensive.
There is no sparring. Practice consists of solitary kata. Paired forms are only practiced at advanced levels.
No prior experience is necessary.
Visitors are welcome to quietly watch a class. Prospective students are invited to watch, or to participate in a class before deciding to join.
Contact to arrange for a demonstration.
