What You'll Learn
- How to coordinate port de bras with leg extensions for a polished and professional line.
- The mechanical differences between a sliding chassé and a weight-transferring tombé.
- Techniques for smoother pivots by managing weight distribution and heel placement.
- Building stability in center fondu by aligning the head over the standing foot.
- Refining transitions from arabesque through first position to maintain a clean neck line.
About This Video
Welcome to a foundational Broche Ballet center practice designed to bridge the gap between the stability of the barre and the fluidity of center work. In this 17-minute session, we focus on the essential elements of beginner ballet technique, specifically targeting fluid footwork and expressive port de bras. Moving away from the support of the barre requires a heightened sense of alignment, and this class provides the technical tools necessary to find your balance and grace.
The class begins with a series of tendu and enveloppé combinations that challenge your understanding of weight placement and pivots. By learning to slightly lift the heel during a pivot, you gain the freedom to move through the center with greater ease and precision. As the session progresses, we dive into the mechanics of the fondu.
In ballet, a fondu is a 'melting' action that builds immense leg strength and stability. We move the leg from the floor to slightly off the floor, emphasizing the need to keep the head positioned directly over the standing foot to maintain a steady center of gravity. One of the highlights of this class is the detailed breakdown of traveling steps.
Many beginner dancers struggle to distinguish between the mechanics of a chassé and a tombé. In this lesson, we clarify that a chassé is a sliding movement across the floor, whereas a tombé requires a distinct push-up or weight transfer before 'falling' onto the working leg. Mastering these nuances, along with sequences featuring balancé, piqué soutenu, and pas de bourrée, will significantly improve your overall coordination.
Finally, we explore the artistry of port de bras. You will learn how arm height relates to the working leg to create a polished, professional look. We specifically focus on transitions into arabesque, ensuring that the arms move through a clean first position to preserve the line of the neck.
Join us at Broche Ballet to refine these skills and elevate your center practice.
