What You'll Learn
- Proper elbow alignment in port de bras to avoid drooping or heavy arms.
- Coordination between arms and legs during développé and passé transitions.
- Mastering the transition into arabesque with a focus on the allongé line.
- Techniques for maintaining posture and balance during center work.
About This Video
Welcome to this Broche Ballet center practice session designed specifically for adult beginners. In this 23-minute class, we dive deep into the artistry of port de bras, focusing on a detail often overlooked: the elbows. Achieving beautiful arms in ballet isn't just about the hands; it is about the underlying structure and support of the upper body.
We begin with center exercises that emphasize the connection between your back and your fingertips. You will learn how to maintain lifted elbows throughout your port de bras, ensuring your movements look intentional and fluid rather than heavy. This class covers fundamental movements including tendu, soutenu, and passé, all while maintaining a rigorous focus on upper body coordination.
One of the highlights of this session is our work on the arabesque. Many dancers struggle with the transition from first position into an arabesque. We will practice thinking of the arms opening through second position and finishing with a lengthened allongé line.
This subtle shift prevents the flipping of the hands and creates the long, elegant line that defines professional ballet technique. We also explore coordination during développé. You will learn the specific placement of the arms—such as keeping the front arm directly in line with your gaze while the other remains supported in second position.
By the end of this class, you will have a better understanding of how to use your elbows to lead your movements, creating a more cohesive and graceful performance. Whether you are practicing at home or in a studio, these technical foundations will elevate your dance to the next level. Join us at Broche Ballet as we refine your technique and help you find your most graceful self.