What You'll Learn
- How to achieve a straight profile where all five fingers are visible
- Customizing thumb placement based on individual finger length
- Techniques for controlling the index and pinky fingers independently
- Using props like pencils to build muscle memory for hand shapes
About This Video
In the world of ballet, the expression does not stop at your toes—it extends through your fingertips. Welcome to this targeted 5-minute practice session with Broche Ballet, where we dive deep into the nuances of hand technique. While often overlooked, the port de bras is incomplete without intentional finger placement.
This session focuses on creating a graceful, elongated look by ensuring all five fingers are visible from a profile view. The core of this practice involves finding the perfect synergy between your thumb and middle finger. Since every dancer’s anatomy is unique, the instructor guides you through adjusting your thumb placement based on your specific finger length.
Whether you have long fingers requiring a lower thumb position or shorter fingers that benefit from a placement closer to the middle, you will find the alignment that creates a clean, professional line. We also explore the specifics of individual finger control. You will learn how to lift the index finger slightly to add breath to the hand without breaking the overall shape, and how to stabilize the pinky finger to prevent it from splaying outward.
For those interested in diverse styles, we touch upon the Balanchine claw and how to refine that specific shape. To make this training more effective, we recommend a unique Broche Ballet tip: practicing with a prop. Holding a small object like a pencil while you move through basic positions like the preparatory position helps bridge the gap between conscious thought and muscle memory.
This 5-minute drill is the perfect add-on to your daily barre routine, helping you transform functional hands into artistic instruments. By focusing on these micro-movements, you develop a sense of proprioception that carries over into complex center work and adagio. Whether you are working on your preparatory position or executing a grand jeté, your hands provide the finishing touch that defines your personal style.
Regular practice of these finger drills ensures that your hands remain soft and expressive rather than stiff or forgotten.
