What You'll Learn
- Techniques for fluid allongé movements with still, controlled wrists.
- Correct elbow rotation and positioning in high fifth to avoid locking.
- How to maintain the precise 30-degree angle for a beautiful arabesque.
- The 'last to change' hand principle for creating professional lines.
- Breath integration techniques to add fluidity and grace to your port de bras.
About This Video
Elevate your ballet technique from the waist up with this focused 12-minute class on port de bras styling. At Broche Ballet, we believe that the artistry of the arms is what truly transforms a series of steps into a dance. This session specifically targets the nuances of the allongé, the high fifth position, and the iconic arabesque arm, helping you achieve the fluid, professional lines seen on stage.
Throughout the lesson, our instructor emphasizes the critical role of the elbow and wrist. You will learn to perform the allongé by keeping the wrist still while letting the music guide the extension, creating a seamless transition that avoids jerky movements. For the high fifth position, the focus shifts to the elbow; we explore how to keep the elbow pointing downward and softly curved, ensuring you never lock out the joint and lose the roundness of the shape.
The class also delves into the complexities of the arabesque arm. You will practice stretching the arm to its fullest expression without sacrificing the essential 30-degree angle that defines a classical silhouette. One of the key takeaways is the concept of 'delayed hands,' where the fingers are the last part of the body to reach the final position, creating a captivating 'picture' for the audience.
Beyond physical placement, this class integrates the breath. You will learn how to time your inhalations and exhalations with your arm movements, which not only assists with balance in the center but also adds a layer of depth and soul to your dancing. Whether you are working on rotating the elbow for a more flowing motion or practicing isolated arm movements while maintaining a steady second position, these exercises are designed to build the coordination and muscle memory needed for advanced center work.
By the end of this class, you will have a deeper understanding of how to use your upper body to communicate grace and strength simultaneously.
