What You'll Learn
- Distinguish between fondu and développé through focused foot articulation and 'scooping' motions.
- Master essential body directions including croisé, effacé, and écarté with correct arm placement.
- Improve cambré technique by initiating bends from the upper spine to protect the lower back.
- Develop coordination for turns through across-the-floor piqué preparations and pas de bourrée.
- Enhance foot speed and pressure against the floor during grand battement and dégagé exercises.
About This Video
Build a strong technical foundation with this comprehensive 75-minute beginner ballet class at Broche Ballet. Led by Julie, this session is meticulously structured to help adult dancers transition from basic movements to more complex center work and across-the-floor combinations. We begin with a 45-minute focused barre designed to warm up the body and refine your alignment. You will work through essential exercises including plié, tendu, and dégagé, with a specific focus on the 'scooping' motion required for a proper fondu versus the extension of a développé. These foundational movements are crucial for developing the strength and articulation needed for more advanced levels.
Following the barre, we move into a 30-minute center practice where we deconstruct the complexities of body directions. You will learn the specific arm and leg placements for croisé front, effacé back, and écarté side, helping you navigate the stage with confidence. The center work also introduces the basics of a pirouette, focusing on the coordination and balance required for controlled turns. You'll practice piqué preparations and integrate tombé with pas de bourrée to improve your transitions and fluidity. Throughout the class, Julie emphasizes the importance of using the upper spine for cambré to avoid lower back compression, ensuring a safe and sustainable practice.
Whether you are a true beginner or returning to the studio after a hiatus, this class provides the tools to improve your foot speed, coordination, and musicality. We conclude our practice with an adagio to develop grace and control, followed by a traditional révérence to express gratitude for the music and the dance community. This class is an excellent opportunity to deepen your understanding of ballet terminology and technique in a supportive, professional environment. Grab your slippers and join us at the barre to elevate your dance journey.
