Biography of Michael Gennan Alexanian
Head instructor (Shihan) and General Manager (Sokatsu Shibucho)

Mr. Michael Gennan Alexanian began his studies in Japanese Swordsmanship 15 years ago in the Toyama Ryu style of Iaido (drawing and cutting with the Katana, or Japanese long sword), achieving the rank of Nidan (2nd Degree). In 1993, he met his current Sensei, Mr. Kazuo Tsumaki of Yokohama, Japan, and was accepted as a Deshi (student) of Tamiya Ryu Iaijutsu in 1994. He currently holds the rank of Nanadan (7th Degree) and is the first American in the Tamiya School’s 400-year history to be allowed to enter, train, test, and teach this particular Cultural Art outside of Japan. He and his wife, Dianne (Tamiya Ryu Iaijutsu Sandan), are the General Manager and Operations Director, respectively, of the United States Tamiya Ryu Iaijutsu Organization, having been formally commissioned by the current and 14th Soke (Headmaster), Tsumaki Seirin, to bring this Art to all of North America in 1996. The Japanese Government has designated Tamiya Ryu Iaijutsu as an “Intangible Cultural Asset”, and the Emperor of Japan has given the Headmaster the title of “Living National Treasure.” Alexanian Sensei has been a visiting Instructor at the Annual School of Japanese Sword Arts held in Guelph, Canada, and travels regularly to Michigan area schools and Dojo (training facilities) to do demonstrations of Tamiya Ryu Iaijutsu and discuss the Philosophy of Martial Arts Training, especially as it relates to Personal Growth, Conflict Resolution and Peer Mediation. He also holds the rank of Shodan (1st Degree) in Shorinji Ryu Ju-Jutsu, an old style of Okinawan Martial Art, entailing armed and unarmed defensive techniques.