All-Level Ballet Barre: Focus on Port de Bras & Third Arabesque

Elevate your daily practice with this specialized barre class from Broche Ballet, led by Julie. While many classes focus purely on footwork and leg strength, this session takes a deep dive into the artistry of the upper body, specifically focusing on port de bras and the intricate details of the third arabesque. This 40-minute session is designed for students of all levels who want to add grace and precision to their movement.

Throughout the class, we explore the concept of "portographs"—the specific pathways the arms must follow to achieve a classical line. Julie provides expert corrections on common pitfalls, such as uneven arm placement in the third arabesque. You will learn how to pull the arms equally from the center of your back, creating a wide, expansive opening that characterizes professional technique.

We also focus on the positioning of the bottom arm, which often sits higher than it should; Julie demonstrates how a lower placement creates a more authentic and striking silhouette. A key highlight of this tutorial is the focus on transitions. Dancers often overlook the moments between positions, but here you will learn to "squeeze the fingers" before moving into an allongé, adding texture to your dance.

We also discuss the mechanics of the elbow. By rolling the elbow to change direction, you maintain proper bone alignment and avoid the "broken" look that can occur when the wrist or hand leads the movement too aggressively. Artistry is synonymous with breath.

Julie guides you on how to coordinate your breathing with the allongé and how to initiate movements from the elbow rather than the hand. This subtle shift in focus allows for smoother transitions and a more connected feel between the upper and lower body. Whether you are practicing at home or in the studio, these port de bras details will refine your arabesque and bring a new level of sophistication to your barre work.