Derryl Willis, Founder and Chief Instructor
Derryl Willis is a disciple of Grandmaster Chen Xiaowang, the nineteenth generation lineage holder and standard bearer of Chen style Taijiquan. Derryl holds the rank of 6th Duan Wei, as awarded by the International WuShu Association. He is the founder and Chief Instructor at Seattle School of Chen Style Taijiquan, in the Fremont neighborhood of Seattle, Washington.
Derryl's passion for Chen Style Taiji arose from his longtime interest in martial arts. Past teachers include the late Madame Gao Fu, and Andy Dale.
He began studying Chen Style Taijiquan in earnest in 1989 and first studied under Grandmaster Chen Xiaowang in 1997. Since that time, he has dedicated his practice exclusively to this discipline as traditionally taught in Chenjiagou Village, Henan, China, under the direction of Chen Xiaowang and the direct supervision of his teacher Chen Xiaoxing.
Derryl adheres to Grand-Master Chen's specific style of instruction, and travels to Chenjiagou, China annually to deepen his practice and understanding of martial arts and Chinese culture.
Derryl's teaching style is attentive and encouraging, reflective of his southern roots in Louisiana, as well as the professionalism gained through his career as a bank executive. His nurturing attitude along with the passion he feels for his art engenders a dedication in his students that allows them to deepen their practice and enjoy a richly satisfying experience.
Derryl is profoundly grateful to Grand-Masters Chen Xiaowang and Chen Xiaoxing for their generosity and caring support as they guide Derryl on his personal path as a Taiji practitioner and instructor.