I've studied a few different styles of kung fu over the past twenty years - Northern Chinese Long Fist, Hung Gar, Bangau Putih Silat, and now Six Harmonies Eagle Claw kung fu with Sifu Tav Byerhoff. Of these, the Eagle Claw training feels unique and exceptional for several reasons.
The system is based on centuries-old Chinese military principles, and this particular school's masters can be traced back several generations. There is a tremendous global community as a result of this history, making the school part of a rich international culture of martial artists. Sifu Tav is an acknowledged inheritor of Sifu Benson Lee and Grandmaster Leung Shum, so this school is situated at the center of an impressive lineage.
The daily training reflects the sense of tradition and the nuanced complexity that comes with generations of refinement. Eagle Claw develops sophisticated external/internal energetics, particularly when paired with the Wu Tai Chi training. The style has many varied components - dynamic aerial kicks as well as circular and linear straight kicks; intricate and varied hand styles and clawing techniques, including a complete system of Chin Na locks; complex footwork patterning and stances, which flow seamlessly into a series of leg sweeps and throws; numerous open hand long forms and corresponding weapons forms, many of which are tailored to, or chosen by, the individual practitioner. Given the diversity of techniques in Eagle Claw, the style is uniquely adaptable to martial artists who are coming from other styles. I've been able to preserve many of the techniques learned in my earlier systems, and then refine them with the control and precision that is a hallmark of Six Harmonies Eagle Claw training. For students new to martial arts, I can't think of a better foundational style.
Wu Tai Chi, also taught at the school, has been my primary focus, and it has proven invaluable in augmenting my kung fu with breathing and balancing techniques that promote clarity, stability, and relaxation in martial situations. The Wu system taught here includes Qi Gong practice, traditional long form movements, and advanced round form techniques as a transitional step into combat applications of the form. For those interested, the school teaches the martial components of the tai chi movements, including partner exercises designed to develop heightened feeling and sensitivity for self-defense rooted in soft, internal power.
Sifu Tav Byerhoff is a patient, sensitive instructor who is both deeply knowledgeable and capable of tailoring your practice to your range of abilities. Sifu Tav has judged at regional and national competitions and is respected in the Chinese martial arts community - he also teaches internationally as a representative of the Eagle Claw tradition. The community of students feels like a group of friends who promote an inclusive, welcoming space for training at your pace and according to your desired outcomes.
Personally, I feel fortunate to have found this school - very highly recommended for beginning and advanced martial artists alike. read more
