MANSFIELD — Students at the Music Academy of Karate and Empowerment put their skills to the test Saturday during the dojo’s monthly belt promotion ceremony, demonstrating forms and sparring techniques developed over weeks of training.
The ceremony featured an appearance by Grandmaster Gary Music, who evaluated students’ progress and guided them through technical movement.
Channeling the principle of “straight and well” taught by karate pioneer Gichin Funakoshi, Gary Music worked directly with students on their form, practical application and martial arts fundamentals.
Sensei Reneta Music addressed the class during the ceremony, emphasizing the academy’s roots and lineage.
“Without Grandmaster Music, you would not have this academy,” she said. “He passed on his knowledge to me, and I’m passing it on to you. When he speaks, you all need to listen and pay attention.”
Three students earned advanced belts during the event:
- Xeniya “NayNay” Osborn was promoted to orange belt.
- Henry Miller was promoted to orange belt.
- Abigail France was promoted to yellow belt.
Several additional students received attendance stripes and stripes marking the mastery of new kata forms.
The academy, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is also participating in the annual Richland Gives campaign with a fundraising goal of $15,000. Funds raised go directly toward student tuition assistance, new training gear and operational expenses at the facility.
Community members can contribute online, in person at 44 W. Fourth St. in downtown Mansfield’s Carrousel District, by phone at 419-405-5711, or by emailing reneta@musickarate.org.
(Below are photos from the Music Academy of Karate and Empowerment Saturday during the dojo’s monthly belt promotion ceremony.)
