.: Introduction

A member of the Shihan Rank (Master Instructor), Grand Master Soengkono has been teaching Martial Arts for the past 44 years.  He has instructed courses in defensive and offensive tactics for the commando units in the army and the Special Police Department in Indonesia.  He has appeared on National television demonstrating many of his training techniques and is a recognized expert on the use of many weapons.

Having struggled with a weak body and many illnesses throughout childhood, no one would have thought that the young Mintarja Soengkono would eventually become one of Aikido's premier practitioners.  Grand Master Soengkono holds a 6th Dan Black Belt in Aikido and Jujitsu from Grand Master S. Yonekawa of Japan, and a Maha Guru (Master Instructor rank) in Pencak Silat (the combat art of Indonesia).

Upon coming to Canada, Grand Master Soengkono embarked on a quest for knowledge, receiving his BSc. degree in Mathematics, his BEng. degree in Civil Engineering, his Graduate Diploma in Business Administration, and his MBA (Master in Business Admin).  Diligently persisting in his search for knowledge, he is presently finishing his Doctoral program in Business Administration.  Drawing from his considerable knowledge and talents, Grand Master Soengkono is also an accomplished artist and calligrapher whose works are well respected and sought after.

The Soengkono School of Aikido, Tae Kwon Do and Silat is now the leading and target school in North Western Ontario.  It continues to grow in success and popularity as more men, women, and children discover the arts of self-improvement and self-attainment from this remarkable teacher.

Aikido and Shihan Soengkono

Aikido, "The Way of Love and Harmony", is a defensive martial art based on the principals of harmony and non-resistance.  The effortless and circular motion of Aikido techniques allow one to neutralize an attacker using throws, controlling techniques, and pressure to key body points.  Grand Master Soengkono gives clear and fascinating instructions on all aspects of this unique martial art.  He teaches how to move along with an aggressive force, rather than opposing it, thereby neutralizing the attack -- when pushed, an Aikidoka will turn and blend with the force, when pulled, the Aikidoka will move forward and redirect the force.  Furthermore, Shihan Soengkono teaches Aikido body conditioning exercises, rolling and breakfalls, stances and reflexes, and the theories of "ki" (internal power) and "centre" that enable you to deflect and direct an attacker into your sphere of control and strength.

At the intermediate level, Grand Master Soengkono delves deeper into one-on-one defensive techniques, giving instruction on circular movements, joint locks, pressure points, throwing techniques, and numerous techniques for fighting from the ground.

At the advanced level, the theories of circularity, control and extension of power are applied to knife and gun-wielding attackers.  Techniques involving weapons such as the Jo (walking staff), bokken (wooden sword), tanto (knife) and clubs or sticks, are taught in conjunction with empty hand techniques.  Furthermore, the advanced Aikidoka becomes a tornado of centrifugal force that can redirect and control all attacks against two, three, four, or more attackers!  Here, Grand Master Soengkono brings insight into the Aikido theory of "unification of mind and body."

 

" The real way of the warrior is to prevent slaughter -
it is the art of Peace, the power of love."

O'Sensei (Great Teacher) Morihei Ueshiba

Founded Aikido in the 1930's. Just Before he died at eighty-six,
he was four-foot-ten, and was so frail that he needed help up
the stairs, but he could easily defeat any number of his
younger students in the prime of their youth.

Endorsements:

"I have been a student of Grand Master Song and his school for over fifteen years and his guidance and instruction have given me the confidence, skills, and abilities to complete my duties as a police officer efficiently and effectively given any situation. Grand Master Song teaches teachers. His careful attention to detail and hands on instruction with his students ensures that the essence and spirit of Aikido is transmitted directly from master to student. I am honoured to recommend Grand Master Song and his school for you or your child."
Terry Pentney (RCMP Officer)

“Teacher to the Teacher”
I have had the devastating misfortune, the esteemed honor, and the haunting tragedy, of meeting many people who walk the path of life and death in this conflict ridden world of ours. However, upon the fated occasion of meeting others amid the scenario of training I became remarkably aware of a person who by his gentle gaze and humble benevolence, exuded strength beyond that which I have ever experienced in any of my international moments. By chance our meeting had happened, or was it by fate, I was to embrace a learning experience beyond my prior remembrances?  While in the presence of this venerated colleague I became clearly and respectfully aware that I had the honor of meeting in my life, one of the worlds, greatest disciples of combative technique understanding.
My skills and techniques that I displayed in the presence of this unassuming and gentle man were absorbed, my words and thoughts were considered, and amid his vast background of experience based knowledge, he shared moments with me that I shall never forget… His words impacted my thoughts while the silence between us was deafening with long-ago reflections.
After having written five books about the experiences of my life, and obtained two doctorate degrees, survived the worlds war zones, taught the officers of over sixty nations, I had suddenly and respectfully become the student of the humble, kind, and combatively insightful,
Grand Master Song.
May his life be long, because he has so very much to contribute to so many…
                                                                                                                                                                    Dr. Robert R. Rail
Surviving the International War Zone

About Dr. Robert Rail:

Dr. Robert Rail was an International Police Officer for the United Nations Police Task Force in Bosnia and Kosovo. As a war zone officer, Bob performed a wide variety of enforcement assignments including patrol, general peace-keeping activities and riot response. He was also responsible for designing curriculums and instructing the elite police officers from over 60 nations who have been deployed in Bosnia, Kosovo, Iraq, Afghanistan, the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. He has been a physical confrontation advisor and resource training provider to personnel for NATO and OSCE.

Dr. Rail has been a resident instructor at the Specialized Advanced Training Unit of the High Institute of the BaghdadPoliceCollege and was awarded a second doctorate degree for his exceptional abilities as an international police instructor. He has received numerous other awards for his work in the international community. He is an internationally respected and acclaimed master instructor in Karate. He is a frequent contributor to publications, television, and radio programs and conducts both training and consulting services for universities and corporations worldwide. He is the author of five books including: the Unspoken Dialogue; Defense Without Damage; Custodial Cuffing and Restraint; Reactive Handcuffing Tactics; and Surviving the International War Zone all available from Varro Press.

"When I first started training with Grand Master Song he told me that he teaches teachers. It took me some time to understand what he meant by that.  It means, among other things, that teaching people only how to fight is insufficient, and that teaching people why fighting is sometimes necessary leads to greater skill, understanding and character development. From this perspective, the martial art becomes a form of conflict resolution, and each art he teaches – aikido, tae kwon do, pentjak silat, tai chi – is a different facet of that central idea. Grand Master Song also teaches that while martial arts training will certainly make students better at self-defence, the deeper and more important purpose of the training is to come to know oneself and experience personal growth.  To do this, he teaches balance. If you are quick to judge, he will teach you to first observe without judgment; if you are shy, he will lead you towards self-confidence; if you are arrogant or vain, he will emphasize humility and respect for others. In mastering ourselves, he teaches, we come to feel compassion for others.  I have certainly found training with Master Song to be a worthwhile experience, and would not hesitate to recommend his school to anyone."

Lee Sieswerda, B.Ed., M.Sc.
(Epidemiologist and Professor at Lakehead University)

 

" I joined Soengkono Martial Arts to improve my physical health and to continue on with my goal of further connecting my mind and body. I was born with Cerebral Palsy, which affects my lower extremities, and that sometimes means I have to find ways that are more unique than others to accomplish my goals. Martial Arts has always been an area that I wanted to explore, and Grand Master Song helps me find a way to achieve that goal, without sacrificing the integrity of the art.
The moment I entered into GM Song's Dojo it was apparent that this was a place of great respect, tremendous positive energy, and a rare opportunity to learn from someone who has traveled the world in pursuit of his arts. He dedicates each day to his students and imparts not just a physical understanding of the art of self defense, but also an emphasis on the preservation of life; a life that includes self-discipline, respect, and family values, taught in a way that only worldly Master Song can deliver. He creates a hunger for knowledge and a sense of wonder that makes all your efforts so gratifying on many levels. He has students that have studied with him for 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 years, showing up time after time, with an unwavering enthusiasm. It's an enthusiasm that is purely contagious, and it keeps me coming back.
Mr. Morgan Austin

"I came to Soengkono Aikido as a middle-aged father of a 10 year old daughter and a 13 year old son. My daughter and I started together and now my son has joined us. From the beginning, Grand Master Soengkono, the instructors and the students made us feel very welcome. Grand Master Soengkono treats everyone with the greatest respectand is a "master" of making all feel at ease.I continue to be impressed each class with how well he relates to children and adolescents. Grand Master Soengkono teaches not just the "how to" of Aikido, but also the "why". My children are learning to stop an attack against them in a way that neutralizes the attack while causing as little harm as possible to the attacker. As a parent, I value my children's learning of this philosophy even more than their learning of the martial skills. We look forward to Grand Master Soengkono's continued instruction in this martial art and in his own unique "art of living"
Dan Newton (Lawyer)


"I started learning Aikido in 2003, and when I moved to Thunder bay in 2006, I was very happy to discover a place where I could continue my training. Grand Master Soengkono's dojo has exceeded my expectations. As soon as I walked in the door on the first day, I knew I had found a special place. Grand Master Soengkono has created such a positive, supportive, fun atmosphere at the dojo, and I always look forward to class. He is an expert Aikido practitioner, and his skill continues to amaze me whenever I see him in action. Not only this, but he is a superb teacher: he explains techniques in a clear way, and he seems to perceive exactly what each student needs, in order to build on their own unique strengths and take students beyond their individual limitations. he engages every student personally in order to make them feel a part of the class and at home in the club. His assistant instructors are also excellent. In addition, Grand master Soengkono leads by example in the personal arena: he teaches us not only about Aikido, but also about how to be a better person, and about the skills to succeed in life. I have learned so much from Grand Master Soengkono and look forward very much to continuing my journey with him and the other members of the club."
Dr. Ruth Wilson- January 2007 (student) 

"Life is a journey in which we learn many lessons. In fact, life keeps giving us the same lessons until we learn them. On occasion, we are given a guide or mentor  to help us on our journey. Grand Master Soengkono and his instructors are such guides. As a parent of a 12 year old boy, I had been looking for a physical activity that would help my son and I get in shape and develop in a positive manner. We started Aikido together about a year and a half ago and the experience has surpassed both of our expectations. We have been welcomed into the Dojo and have been treated with the utmost of respect and patience. What I found most impressive is the emphasis on mental, spiritual and physical growth. Grand Master Soengkono takes the time to teach us about ways to be successful in life while also learning self defense.
The values demonstrated and taught in the Dojo include such things as respect for self and others, self development, the power of goal setting, the need for focus, positive reinforcement, personal accountability, hard work and team work. The end result of the learning about self defense is the enhancement of self esteem and increased life skills. Any parent wants this kind of positive experience for their child. Any adult needs these life lessons reinforced or learned.
I have worked most of my life as a counsellor and a manager in the field of mental health. I have worked with adults, childre, youth and families facing a variety of problems. I believe that training in this Dojo would help anyone, adult or child, who needs to learn to overcome life's challenges. Grand Master Soengkono's approach is to build on the positives and strengths in his students and to help them control and overcome their weaknesses. I have no hesitation in recommending Grand Master Soengkono's Martial Arts School."
Tom Walters, MSW, RSW, MHA, CHE (parent and student)


I decided to study the Martial Arts initially to regain a measure of physical fitness and to pursue an art which was true to the traditions and philosophy of the Martial Arts.  I found all of those things and a very great deal more studying with Grand Master Soengkono.  His instructional focus goes far beyond that of the physical training, he strives to promote a sense of community, co-operation and teamwork, along with a strong philosophy of good citizenship and genuine concern for others, both within and outside of the school.  He ensures that each student is made to feel at home and that they are part of the school.  He ensures that each student can train to his or her ability, while promoting their strengths, and motivating them to improve on, and overcome their weaknesses.  His school has provided me with a positive environment and has afforded me the opportunity to surround myself with positive people.  I have made new friends and increased my level of physical fitness, while becoming more positive and confident in my daily life.
Dale LaFreniere (student)
Captain - Royal Canadian Artillery

What I discovered at Soengkono Aikido were the tools that have made me a more confident, compassionate and focused person. here I found a true Grandmaster of the eastern fighting arts with the unique gift to inspire his students to heights they once belived impossible. The time that I have spent at the Soengkono Dojo has been, and continues to be, one of the most rewarding experience of my life."
Adrien Ladouceur (2nd Dan Assistant Instructor)

Aikido will have a different meaning and impact on anyone who practices it.  For me, it was an opportunity to learn a great martial art.  The Soengkono Dojo provides a receptive environment in which to practice (with) mutual respect, safety, and enthusiastic teaching.  Aikido is a great workout, but it is much more than a "way to stay in shape".  Those who persevere, as O'Sensei wrote, will find the truth in that "Aikido uses the body to train the mind and calm the spirit".
Dr. J. Wasielewski(student)

With Soengkono Aikido, I finally found a sport that could pry my son off the computer.  It has awaken his enthusiasm, built his self-esteem, and given him exciting and reachable goals.  The Dojo is more like a home than a classroom.  Soengkono Aikido has surpassed every expectation.
Dr. Lynn Pratt (parent)

Aikido has taught me patience and understanding, and I have found that it strengthens the mind, body and spirit.  If only the best martial arts training will do, then I must recommend Grand Master Soengkono -- truly a modern master of the ancient martial arts.
Sal Mammoliti (student)

"I have found Grand master Soengkono to be a master craftsman. He has taken my son and polished him to the point where he is personable and respectful man, and a better father in his own right."
Bernard Ladouceur (parent)

Aikido is not about competition.  There are no winners or losers in true Aikido.  Rather, through training and technique practice with a partner, one can learn to blend one's energy and effort with others.  While Aikido can be used in self defence, its true benefits are realized outside the dojo in everyday life.  Utilizing Aikido principles in daily life can help avoid and defuse conflicts rather than create them.  My two sons and I appreciate the opportunity to study Aikido under such an accomplished and gifted teacher as Grand Master Soengkono.
Dr. Reijo Peltoniemi (student)

Grand Master Soengkono teaches with enthusiasm and humour, and manages to bring out the best in all of his pupils.  I have enjoyed Aikido training since 1994, and find it to be physically rewarding and intellectually stimulating.  As a former Physical and Health Educator, I highly recommend Aikido as an outstanding way to practice a safe, efficient, and educational form of martial arts.
Dr. Jim Morris (student)