What You'll Learn
- The technical mechanics of executing a proper glissade and assemblé.
- How to effectively use the plié and brush to generate height and power.
- Techniques for achieving safe, silent landings with correct body alignment.
- Strategies for controlling tempo and musicality during allegro combinations.
- Modifications to accommodate different fitness levels and injury prevention.
About This Video
Welcome to Broche Ballet’s comprehensive technical guide to fundamental jumping mechanics. In this session, we dive deep into the core components of petite allegro, specifically focusing on the execution of the glissade and the assemblé. These two movements are the essential building blocks for traveling and jumping sequences in ballet, and mastering their unique mechanics is vital for any dancer’s progression.
The lesson begins with an emphasis on the foundation of all jumps: the plié. A deep, controlled plié provides the necessary power for a successful take-off and acts as a crucial shock absorber for a safe, cushioned landing. We explore how to transition seamlessly from a plié into a sharp brush or dégagé to initiate the flight phase of the jump.
For the glissade, the focus remains on the gliding nature of the step, ensuring the feet maintain contact with the floor for as long as possible to achieve a smooth, lateral motion. Conversely, in the assemblé, the challenge lies in the timing required to ‘assemble’ the feet in the air before landing simultaneously in a solid fifth position. Safety and alignment are paramount throughout these exercises.
You will learn specific tips for maintaining proper vertical posture, keeping the core engaged, and ensuring your knees track correctly over your toes during the landing phase. Our instructor provides detailed breakdowns of the rhythm required to execute these steps with both grace and precision. We also discuss essential modifications for those working through injuries or physical limitations, ensuring that every dancer can participate at their own pace.
By practicing with varying musical tempos, you will develop the agility and coordination necessary for both petite and grande allegro. Whether you are a beginner looking to understand the basic mechanics or an intermediate dancer seeking to refine your landing technique and brush work, this class offers professional insights to elevate your practice. Consistency is key to developing muscle memory; join Broche Ballet as we perfect these foundational jumps together.