Brian Dowdy
Brian began practicing aikido at Richmond Aikido Aikikai in 2011, having been introduced to the art by his brother, Jeff. There Brian built his foundations in Iwama style aikido, focusing on fundamentals and weapons work in the tradition of Morihiro Saito Sensei. After moving with his family to Minnesota in 2013, Brian found and fell quickly in love with the community at Aikido of Minnesota. He was promoted to the rank of ikkyu by Zenko Okimura Shihan and currently teaches aikido kids class.
In his professional life, Brian conducts the Minnesota Philharmonic Orchestra and Journey North Opera Company, and he works as Personnel Co-coordinator at The Hub Bike Coop. The spirit of aikido deeply informs his work and his personal life, be it blending with and leading the energy of the orchestra, helping to build stronger teams and manage conflict, or being a good friend, partner and father.