What You'll Learn
- How to coordinate head, chin, and eye placement with complex arm and leg movements.
- Techniques for maintaining a straight standing leg during rapid coupé transitions.
- The stylistic differences between RAD and other classical ballet schools regarding barre work.
- Using the 'allongé breath' to create seamless, artistic port de bras transitions.
- Finding stability in attitude balances by correctly positioning the head and shifting weight.
About This Video
Welcome to this 48-minute Advanced Ballet Barre class at Broche Ballet, specifically designed for dancers who wish to transcend mechanical execution and embrace true artistry. In this session, we dive deep into the nuance of épaulement, focusing on how the precise coordination of the head, eyes, and chin can transform your classical technique into something truly expressive.
The class begins with a foundational sequence of plié and tendu, where we introduce the concept of the 'allongé breath.' This technique helps you transition your port de bras smoothly, ensuring that every movement feels fluid and intentional rather than stiff. As we progress into relevé and cambré work, you will learn how to maintain a strong, straight standing leg during coupé changes—a common challenge for advanced students. By focusing on pulling up through the supporting side and lowering the heel with control, you will find greater stability and length.
A key highlight of this class is our exploration of stylistic variations between ballet schools. We discuss the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) approach to head placement at the barre versus other classical methods, giving you a broader understanding of the global ballet landscape. In exercises such as pas de cheval, temps lié, and rond de jambe, we emphasize the diagonal of the face. For instance, when performing écarté front and back, we focus on lifting or lowering the chin along the diagonal to ensure the dancer's profile remains clean and visible to the audience.
As the class reaches its peak with fondu and grand battement, we incorporate firework-like energy. You will practice 'peeking' under the arm in attitude positions and using sharp head lifts to add brilliance to your extensions. Whether you are working on your adage or preparing for center work, these head movements are the secret to professional-looking performance quality. Join us at Broche Ballet to refine your coordination and bring a new level of sophistication to your dancing.
