What You'll Learn
- Coordinate head and arm movements using the turn and lift technique and allongé alignment.
- Distinguish between the body directions of croisé, en face, and écarté devant versus derrière.
- Execute all five classical arabesque positions with proper shoulder and core engagement.
- Master the timing of port de bras to ensure both arms arrive in position simultaneously.
- Improve spatial awareness and épaulement through focused center work exercises.
About This Video
Welcome to this specialized beginner center session at Broche Ballet, designed to deepen your understanding of the complex spatial directions and upper body coordination that define classical ballet. In this 21-minute class, we move away from the barre to explore how to maintain balance and grace while navigating body directions like croisé and écarté. One of the most challenging aspects of center work for beginners is the coordination of the head and arms, known as épaulement.
This class provides detailed instruction on how to use the "turn and lift" of the head to breathe life into your movement. You will learn the specific mechanics of allongé, where the chin follows the path of the middle finger, creating a long, elegant line. We also delve into the nuances of écarté, distinguishing between the allongé lines of écarté devant and the more rounded shapes often used in écarté derrière.
A significant portion of this lesson is dedicated to mastering the five distinct styles of arabesque. While many beginners only learn one or two variations, understanding all five is essential for moving into more advanced choreography. We place special emphasis on the fourth arabesque, which requires a unique "squeeze" of the core and specific shoulder placement to achieve the correct silhouette.
Because this class was filmed with a modification for a hip injury, the exercises remain primarily on two legs. This makes the session an incredible resource for dancers who want to focus intensely on their port de bras, head placement, and torso alignment without the added challenge of balancing on one leg or performing high extensions. Whether you are practicing in demi-pointe or flat shoes, you will gain a clearer sense of how your arms should arrive at their destination simultaneously, even when they travel through different paths.
By the end of this session, you will feel more confident in your spatial awareness and the delicate coordination that makes ballet so captivating.
