What You'll Learn
- Mechanics of the piqué soutenu turn and spotting techniques to improve balance
- How to execute a pas de bourrée with proper foot placement and rhythm
- Two methods for extending into a waltz: sharp brushing vs. fluid pas de basque
- Artistic arm movements using allongé and expressive sweeping motions
- Maintaining croisé alignment and stability during center floor combinations
About This Video
Transitioning from the barre to the center is one of the most exciting and challenging milestones for any student. In this Broche Ballet session, we focus on developing the stability, core strength, and musicality required to move gracefully without the support of the barre. This class focuses on several key foundational movements, including the pas de bourrée, piqué soutenu, and fluid waltz combinations that travel across the floor.
One of the primary technical focuses of this lesson is the piqué soutenu. This turn is a fundamental building block for more complex pirouettes and advanced across-the-floor sequences. You will learn the specific mechanics of the movement: the powerful push from the standing leg, the precise placement of the feet in a tight fifth position, and the necessary spotting of the head to maintain balance and prevent dizziness.
The instructor emphasizes the relationship between the head and feet, ensuring that your weight remains perfectly centered over your toes as you rotate. We also explore the elegance of croisé alignment and the use of allongé to lengthen the aesthetic line of the arms. The class breaks down two distinct ways to extend the leg into a waltz position—through a sharp, energetic brushing action or a softer, more rounded pas de basque.
By understanding these subtle variations, you can add texture, variety, and professional nuance to your dancing. The instructor also highlights the importance of landing with open arms after a turn, a small detail that significantly improves the overall performance quality. Beyond the technical steps, this class encourages students to tap into their inner artistry.
The instructor provides creative imagery for arm movements, suggesting a sweep that represents different aspects of your life, from your environment to your very breath. This holistic approach ensures that you are not just executing steps, but truly dancing with expression and intent. Whether you are perfecting your plié transitions or mastering the timing of a grand allegro waltz, this session provides the expert guidance needed to feel confident and poised in the center.
