Sifu Michael Parrella
"LISTEN TO ME NOW: That was NEVER what Kung-Fu was about. You learned stuff from your teacher, then you practiced....made it yours. You made your contribution to the current generation. THAT IS WHAT THE TEACHERS OF ALL OTHER GENERATIONS HAVE DONE (except the last few)."
Precisely. As far as I am concerned, once a style is mastered and the student recognized, that person is the style. I could make all new patterns if I thought it was needed to better teach the style. I could teach the style without patterns, although they are a great teaching tool. They are one way in which we pass the knowledge down to the next generation and one way in which that generation can maintain skill. And as we all realise there is never only ONE WAY.
In my style, each teacher has modified or added or created new patterns. The reason being, they thought it would better serve in teaching the spirit of the style.
Some people hold credibility through certain patterns known - what's with that!? My gung fu isn't defined by any one pattern I may or may not have been taught. Patterns are tools. Tools do not necessitate style although they can be unique to any given style. Patterns will keep me sharp if I have no one else to practise with. Patterns will pass down movements and techniques that show application. It is 'written' history of techniques and possible applications.
We are the style Today. If you have been recognized by your teacher, then the style is yours to honor, teach as best you can, and ensure it continues to live.
nospam