What You'll Learn
- Master the foundational choreography of the 4 Little Swans variation at the barre.
- Improve precision in en pointe footwork including sous-sus and relevé.
- Refine head placement and coordination while executing complex leg movements.
- Practice piqué turns and transitions with proper alignment and support.
About This Video
Bring the magic of Swan Lake into your home studio with this focused practice session on the iconic 4 Little Swans Pas de Quatre. Designed for dancers beginning their journey en pointe, this tutorial breaks down the intricate choreography of the 'Dance of the Little Swans' into manageable segments performed at the barre for added stability and precision. The 4 Little Swans variation is world-renowned for its fast footwork and synchronized movements.
In this session, we adapt the choreography to help you build the strength and muscle memory required for this demanding piece. You will focus on the essential movements of the front leg, coordinating sharp footwork with specific head changes—a hallmark of this variation. We begin with a four-count sequence followed by precise head movements to the right, left, and down, ensuring you capture the character's unique bird-like qualities.
As we progress through the variation, you will practice sous-sus and passé movements en pointe. The barre provides the necessary support to ensure your alignment remains vertical and your weight is centered over your toes. We also incorporate relevé and traverse steps, culminating in the iconic piqué movements.
Throughout the exercise, pay close attention to the 'delta head' positions and the final swan bow, which adds the necessary artistic finish to the technical work. At Broche Ballet, we believe in making classical repertoire accessible to adult learners. By practicing these variations at the barre, you develop the ankle strength and coordination needed to eventually take these steps to the center.
Whether you are preparing for a performance or simply want to challenge your pointe work, this tutorial offers a structured way to master one of ballet's most famous sequences. Keep practicing, focus on your turnout, and enjoy the process of bringing this classic variation to life.
