What You'll Learn
- The "vertical pathway" for fluid and precise port de bras movements.
- How to lock your arm positions to improve stability in future turns and jumps.
- Techniques for armpit engagement and upper body blocking to maintain posture.
- Refined execution of fondu and adagio exercises with a focus on coordination.
- The proper relationship between the arm and leg during piqué plié movements.
About This Video
Refine your artistry and technical precision with this 1-hour all-level ballet barre class led by Julie. At Broche Ballet, we believe that the foundations of dance are where the true magic happens. This session is meticulously designed to help students of all levels master the nuances of upper body coordination, specifically focusing on the grace and strength of port de bras.
One of the core themes of this class is the "vertical pathway" of the arms. Julie guides you through the mechanics of moving from a low position to a high one, emphasizing that a clear, direct path is essential for both aesthetic beauty and functional balance. You will explore the subtle but crucial differences between the "down" and "first" positions, learning how these adjustments impact your overall center of gravity.
A standout concept in this lesson is the stability of the arms during movement. To achieve professional-looking lines and reliable balance, dancers must learn to lock their arms into position without creating unnecessary tension. This "blocking" of the upper body prevents the common mistake of letting the arms drift, which often leads to instability during turns and jumps.
By engaging the armpits and maintaining a strong frame, you create a solid foundation for the rest of your movement. The class structure follows a traditional progression, beginning with foundational work and moving into more complex combinations. During the fondu exercises, you will practice keeping your legs energized and straight while layering in intricate arm movements.
The adagio section further challenges your control, requiring slow, sustained pliés, tendus, and grand battements. Julie provides constant feedback on form, specifically highlighting the importance of keeping the knees back and hips forward during a plié to ensure maximum core engagement. Whether you are working on your piqué plié or looking to improve your grand battement height, the technical tips shared in this class—such as keeping the leg behind the arm for better alignment—will transform your practice.
Join us at Broche Ballet to build a stronger, more graceful foundation.
