About Us

At Earth and Wood Martial Arts we train in all aspects of Taijiquan (Tai Chi) and Jianfa. (Chinese Swordsmanship). We welcome new members at any level of experience, from beginner to advanced. We welcome everyone regardless of previous training or styles. We welcome all areas of interest whether you wish to maintain physical health, spar, or preserve the traditional values of Taijiquan/Jianfa. Most importantly, we encourage our members to learn, whether from us or others. Our focus is on your growth for fitness, martial skill, or carrying on the traditional skills of Taijiquan and Jianfa. That is our North Star.

Instructors

Bob Shannon

Bob began his martial arts journey studying Choy Li Fut and Hung Ga in the 1980s. He took a break to raise his family and advance his profession but never stopped looking for qualified instruction in Chinese Martial Arts. In 1998, he saw a demonstration by Master Aiping Cheng doing Chen style taiji. He began studying with her and then teaching for the next 22 years. He learned the full Chen and Hebei Xingyiquan curriculums. In 2017 Master Aiping retired but he continued teaching at the school she started until 2025. Bob supplemented his training with in person workshops with Chen Zhenglie and Chen Xiao Wang. He also sought out regional experts in Tuishou. During Covid, along with Neil, they set out on a journey to learn Jianfa. He connected with Laoshi Scott Rodell and has been a member of his academy and was active in bringing Laoshi Rodell to Connecticut for in depth workshops on multiple occasions.

Neil White

Neil began studying Okinawan Karate in 2001 in Michigan. He greatly enjoyed the practical aspects of that art. He became a certified instructor, enjoying teaching students of all ages, and achieved the rank of 3rd-degree black belt. After moving to Connecticut, he began studying Chen-Style Tai Chi under Bob Shannon. He greatly enjoyed the similarities of body mechanics between those arts and the focus on practical application. Neil has competed in the advanced category with Chen-Style forms and instructed Chen-Style Tai Chi in Connecticut. Recognizing weapons sparring as exceedingly rare in martial arts, Neil has greatly benefited from workshops and guidance from Laoshi Scott Rodell. He finds regular sparring with HEMA practitioners very valuable, in addition to sparring with his fellow Jianke. He has also participated in additional workshops to enhance his understanding of martial arts.

Neil believes Martial Arts should bring people together, be enjoyable, and enrich our everyday lives.