About
The Instructor
Master Darno V. DeJohnette, Sr., owner and senior instructor at DeJohnette Martial Arts Academy, is a 4th Degree Black Belt and Certified Instructor in the U.S. Soo Bahk Do® Moo Duk Kwan® Federation.
He is a cinematographer and produces karate and self-defense videos under the name Golden Dragon Productions ©. [www.dejohnettekarate.com]
Master DeJohnette began his training in Soo Bahk Do® in 1999 under the guidance of Thomas M. Thai, SBN. He earned the rank of Cho Dan (1st Degree Black Belt) in 2006, E Dan (2nd Degree Black Belt) in 2008, Sam Dan (3rd Degree Black Belt) in 2011, and Sa Dan (4th Degree Black Belt) in 2015.
Master DeJohnette received Jo Kyo Certification in 2009. In 2010 he opened DeJohnette Martial Arts Academy in Vista, CA. In 2013 he received Kyo Sa Certification. His Dan Bon is 44400.
The most satisfying reward is watching my students ascend through the ranks, developing their skills and technique, and growing in confidence, respect, and humility.
Photos and videos
Reviews
Olivia R.
Sheila S.
Frank D.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I introduce my students to the Korean fighting art of Tang Soo Do in the Moo Duk Kwan style. We teach the history, tradition, and philosophy of the Moo Duk Kwan. Essential techniques, including punching, kicking, and blocking, are taught in a series of one-step sparring moves, combinations, and forms designed to familiarize new students with the proper postures and stances. We teach proper breathing techniques to control speed and power. As the student progresses, they learn self-defense techniques, including joint locks, submission holds, and judo-style takedowns. We offer special weapons training classes, seminars, and workshops to students who want (or need) the extra training.
We introduce all beginning students to simple basic techniques, stances, blocks, kicks, and punches. Once the student has learned the basics, we move on to more advanced techniques. We test and evaluate students for rank promotion advancement once every quarter if they have made significant progress in their training.
The Tang Soo Do ranking system consists of 10 levels of colored belts (2 white, two orange, three green, and three red) and ten levels of black belts. We conduct all color belt examinations n the studio.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I am a 4th-degree master instructor with 20+ years of training in Tang Soo Do Moo Duk Kwan.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
The current primary student tuition is $135 per month.
Additional family members currently pay $30 per student.
How did you get started teaching?
I was promoted to 2nd-degree black belt and found that working with new students helped me become more effective as a martial artist.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with physically handicapped students and students with ADHD
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Not all karate teachers share the same perspective on training. Visit the studio, speak with students and parents, and ask them what they think about the school, the art, the instructor's demeanor, and teaching methods. Talk to the instructor and convey your concerns and aspirations. Be open and honest about your intentions and expectations.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Does the student want to learn the art for themselves, or are they being forced by parents to take up some activity?
What are the goals and objectives for starting the martial arts program?
Is the student willing to commit to the long journey toward achieving black belt excellence?