What You'll Learn
- Execute the relevé pivot to build the foundation for future pirouettes.
- Coordinate head and hip alignment for stable weight transfers in ton lié.
- Master the rhythmic flow of waltz steps including balancé and chassé.
- Refine port de bras positions to enhance upper body grace and balance.
- Build leg strength and control through center-floor fondu exercises.
About This Video
Transitioning from the barre to the center is a pivotal moment for any ballet student. This 18-minute class from Broche Ballet is specifically crafted to help beginner dancers find their equilibrium and move with confidence in open space. Throughout the session, we emphasize the technical nuances that transform basic steps into fluid, professional movements. We begin with foundational exercises like fondu and ton lié, where the focus is on maintaining an integrated alignment of the head and hips. By moving these as a single unit, you avoid the common mistake of letting the hips lead, which often results in lost balance.
A significant portion of the class is dedicated to the relevé pivot (relevé passé turn). This exercise serves as the primary building block for learning pirouettes. You will learn how to push off both feet simultaneously and catch your weight securely on one leg in a clean passé. Mastering this "catch" is the secret to developing the control required for multiple turns later in your training.
The class concludes with a dynamic waltz combination, incorporating balancé, piqué soutenu, and chassé. Here, we focus on the coordination of port de bras—ensuring the first position arm remains lower than the second—and the specific weight distribution needed for sliding steps. You will learn to keep your weight on the back foot during a chassé until the very last moment, allowing for a graceful, gliding aesthetic. Whether you are practicing your arabesque or refining your pas de bourrée, this center work class provides the essential tools to feel grounded, balanced, and expressive on the dance floor.
