Exciting news for Academie Duello. We have scheduled our first Silver Cord examination for August 21st, 2015. This is excellent news for us as a school and for me as the Master Instructor.
The Silver Cord is the fourth rank in our system and is the equivalent of a Provost level in swordplay schools from the past. This is the level before our master rank.
Passing the Silver Cord examination requires that you show:
- In earnest, combative proficiency (both technical and strategic) with single rapier, as well as with rapier and dagger
- In earnest, combative proficiency with the sidesword and buckler
- Proficiency with the longsword in technical and combative application
- Proficient grappling skills
- A strong technical foundation in quarterstaff, rapier and buckler, rapier and cloak, dagger, counter-dagger, longsword grappling, and use of two swords
- Strategic and tactical depth with the rapier in orthodox and unorthodox situations
- Strategic and tactical depth with the sword and buckler
- Use of the rapier versus the longsword and sidesword
- Interpretation and execution of three historical assaults with the sidesword
It is a massive undertaking and the fact that we have a group of students ready to take the examination is tremendous.
I will release more information on the examination in the coming weeks. For now mark your calendars, and if you're able to, be here on August 21st!
Devon Boorman is the Co-Founder and Director of Academie Duello Centre for Swordplay, which has been active in Vancouver, Canada since 2004. Devon’s expertise centres on the Italian swordplay tradition including the arts of the Renaissance Italian rapier, sidesword, and longsword, as well as knife and unarmed techniques. Read more from Devon Boorman.