What You'll Learn
- Improve your axis of rotation for more stable and consistent pirouettes.
- Master specific fouetté preparation drills to build rotational power and control.
- Refine transitions between complex center combinations using tombé and chassé.
- Enhance upper body artistry through detailed port de bras and alignment instruction.
- Develop better balance and fluidity in bourrée and pas de basque sequences.
About This Video
Step into the center with confidence in this advanced ballet class from Broche Ballet. This session is meticulously designed for dancers who want to move beyond the basics and master the complexities of advanced center work, with a specific focus on the mechanics of turns and rotational stability. Whether you are working toward your first consistent set of fouettés or looking to refine your existing technique, this class provides the technical breakdown necessary for professional-level execution.
We begin by examining the axis of rotation. Understanding exactly where your weight sits during a pirouette is crucial for maintaining balance throughout multiple rotations. Our instructor introduces a series of "debug" drills, such as moving from passé to fourth position and executing quarter turns to a lower flat. These exercises are specifically designed to help you identify power issues and axis misalignments before they disrupt your full rotations. By breaking down the movement, you can isolate where the energy is lost and correct your alignment for more efficient turning.
A significant portion of the class is dedicated to fouetté preparation. You will learn how to find your center after a challenging pirouette sequence, using that momentum to transition smoothly into fouetté drills. The instructor provides detailed corrections on the "big swing" exercise, emphasizing the need to bring the chest in and maintain a strong core to support the whipping motion of the leg. This focus on the upper body ensures that your turns remain controlled and aesthetically pleasing.
Beyond turning, we explore the artistry of footwork and transitions. You will practice waltz and chassé steps that require fluid port de bras and precise weight shifts. We also cover bourrée and pas de basque, focusing on how a reach of the arm or a specific gaze can enhance your overall control and presence. Every movement, from the initial tombé to the final bow, is treated with technical scrutiny to help you achieve a professional finish to your center work.
