Dragon Studios Taijiquan Sash System
Dragon Studios utilizes a sash system to indicate progress through a student's study of the art of Taijiquan (Tai Chi). Each color indicates a level of training and expertise. It is important to note that Dragon Studios does not recognize "mastery." Rather, we believe that at every level of development, there is always something more to learn.
Initiate Level (Dai or Mei). The student has learned the first form of the 108 movement long form, can satisfactorily perform the movements of first form by themselves, and has been introduced to all other aspects of the training.
Advanced Level (Heng or Jei). The student has learned the second form of the 108 movement long form, can satisfactorily perform the movements of the second form by themselves, and has had further tutelage in all other aspects of the training.
Senior Level (Si-Dai or Si-Mei). The student has learned the 108 movement long form and can satisfactorily perform the movements of the 108 movement long form by themselves. They can also perform the other aspects of the training without lengthy reminders.
Disciple Level (Si-Heng or Si-Jei). The student demonstrates the human-level aspects of Tai Chi in their performance of the long form, that is: relaxed, light, natural, and effortless movement with a smooth, even tempo. The student can perform AT LEAST a left-handed short form; has developed and can perform a weapon form, with the weapon of their choice; demonstrates a level of self-mastery (above what they started with) in both tui shou and san shou; and demonstrates the use of Tai Chi technique when sparring, rather than falling back on Karate, boxing, and/or wrestling moves.
Apprentice Instructor (Tu Jiao). As the greatest teacher is the inner-teacher, and whereas learning to teach the form can grant the student certain insights into their own form, the student may begin this program as early as Senior Level (Purple Sash). The apprentice is on the track to become an instructor, and is given the opportunity to teach each level of the form, as well as other aspects of the training. Advanced and Senior Level students are often called upon to lead a group through form or other trainings, the difference is that this individual has satisfactorily passed off first-level instructor certification and is "on track."
Assistant Instructor (Zhu Jiao) . Has satisfactorily passed off second-level instructor certification. Third level certification and Disciple Level is required to advance to Instructor level.
Instructor (Sifu). Is authorized to teach Dragon Studios Taijiquan training, and pass-off students to each sash level, as well as apprentice instructors. Advancement to instructor is determined by the senior instructor, as well as consensus of current instructors.