What You'll Learn
- Master waltz-time phrasing by identifying musical accents and allowing movement to flow softly.
- Enhance upper-body artistry by coordinating head and eye-line with circular port de bras paths.
- Develop coordination by integrating breath into movements like grand plié and cambré.
- Improve spatial awareness and extension by reaching through the fingertips in allongé.
- Practice stability and poise during transitions where the hand leaves the barre.
About This Video
Welcome to a specialized session at Broche Ballet designed to move beyond the technical mechanics of the barre and into the realm of performance artistry. This 45-minute class, titled Artistry Barre, is crafted for dancers who want to infuse their movements with grace, breath, and expressive storytelling. We begin with a series of foundational exercises—including plié, tendu, and rond de jambe—but with a unique focus on the upper body.
Instead of focusing solely on the legs, we emphasize the unfurling of the arms and back. You will explore how to integrate a soft cambré and a reaching allongé into every combination. By focusing on circular motions rather than rigid lines, you will learn to spread your wings and create a more professional, stage-ready presence.
A major component of this class is the use of whimsical, waltz-inspired music. We delve deep into the one-two-three rhythm, teaching you how to find the accent on the downbeat and allow the following counts to flow with a soft, melodic quality. This approach helps in mastering complex transitions like the pas de bourrée and maintaining a sense of lift during a sous-sus or a challenging développé.
Throughout the barre, we focus on the coordination of the head, eye-line, and breath. You will practice using your inhalation to find height in a fondu and your exhalation to find depth in a grand plié. This intentional use of breath not only improves your stamina but also adds a layer of sophistication to your dancing.
We also practice moments of releasing the barre, encouraging you to find stability and poise through a strong core and an expressive upper body. Whether you are preparing for center work or simply want to feel more like a performer during your daily practice, this Artistry Barre offers the tools to transform your technique into true art.
