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Seminar and workshop at the Villamont School, Lausanne, Feb-2025

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The Shin Nippon Bujutsu Kenkyū Kai (真日本武術研究会) association had the privilege of being invited by the Villamont Primary and Secondary School (Lausanne) for an overview of the theme of samurai. In particular, the evolution of the status and definition of the term “samurai” throughout its history, as well as the place of women in the military hierarchy up to the Edo period were discussed. A selection of students were able to attend the conference and learn the art of wielding the katana.

This event could not have taken place without the support of the school’s director, Mrs. Guinand, and the unwavering dedication of the teacher Mrs. Jaquier and her colleague to the students. “History does not necessarily have to be taught in a rigid ex cathedra format, it can be analyzed and experienced differently.” This establishment is the ambassador of the interculturality of the city of Lausanne and advantageously highlights the spirit and cultural wealth of the City of Lausanne, both on a cultural and social level.

From the first seconds, a hand goes up and many, many questions.

Séminaire à l'établissement scolaire de Villamont, 2

Séminaire à l'établissement scolaire de Villamont, 7

A very attentive and wonderfully diverse audience in gender and background.

The discussion is not only oral, it is based on written materials…

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Séminaire à l'établissement scolaire de Villamont, 11

and illustrated!

After the seminar, sitting on the benches, it’s time for the workshop to try your hand at handling the katana!

Séminaire à l'établissement scolaire de Villamont, 15

Séminaire à l'établissement scolaire de Villamont, 21

Everyone is in sync. Great!

And everyone is focussed and disciplined… except two?

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The audience tries out the tonbo stance!

And while we’re at it, tonbo on the left side!

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Séminaire à l'établissement scolaire de Villamont, 29

And we cut the target. Bravo!

The instructions are parsimonious, but sometimes difficult to assimilate. The students do brilliantly!

Séminaire à l'établissement scolaire de Villamont, 27

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Souvenir photo. Thanks to everyone.

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Demonstration in Lausanne, Dec-2024

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The Shin Nippon Bujutsu Kenkyū Kai (真日本武術研究会) association had the privilege of being selected to present a demonstration during the annual festival called “Diver’cité “. This event celebrates the interculturality of the city of Lausanne and highlights the wealth that migrants bring to the City of Lausanne, both culturally and socially.

As part of this festival, during which hundreds of people were able to learn about the themes offered by local associations, and some selected groups were able to offer a demonstration of their arts, including traditional dances and music, as well as the art of handling the katana. Our Association had the honor of demonstrating its art over a one-hour slot. After a demonstration of Ryūshin Shōchi Ryū, including waza in the form of kata and kumitachi, a workshop for the public was organized.

Unlike previous editions, the party was held indoors, in a converted former building, the Espace Amaretto. The organizing committee was well inspired, as on this particular day, it rained all day long. Unless I’m mistaken, the building was used as a hangar, in connection with rail freight.

A little interview before the demonstration.

A very… industrial hall filled with sound equipment, and the moderator asking question after question.

Gabriel, 13, demonstrates his talents in front of the audience.

Léolia, 14 years old, extremely concentrated in front of a crowd full of spectators, including parents…

The workshop after the demonstration took place in a good mood and respect. Very young children, and almost adult children. Perfect!

The Lausanne City newspaper reported on this celebration (bottom left insert).

Start of demonstration.

Demonstration – Danièle.