What You'll Learn
- How to identify and internalize the pulse of ballet music to improve timing.
- Techniques for subdividing counts to create more expressive and fluid phrasing.
- How to recognize and utilize 'delayed beats' for artistic suspense.
- The use of breath as a functional tool for rhythmic precision and communication.
- Methods to develop an internal metronome and maintain timing during complex combinations.
About This Video
Developing a deep connection to music is what transforms a series of steps into a true performance. In this second installment of our Counting Music series at Broche Ballet, instructor Julie dives into the fundamental mechanics of rhythm, timing, and the 'groove' that every dancer needs to master. Understanding how to count is more than just hearing 1, 2, 3, 4; it is about internalizing the pulse and learning how to manipulate time to create artistry.
We begin by exploring the concept of the 'groove'—the ability to feel the music in your body before you even move. By using tools like the metronome and practicing subdivision, you will learn how to fill the space between the counts. This is particularly vital in adagio exercises, where the movement must be continuous and fluid.
Instead of just landing on the beat, you will learn to use the 'and' counts to stretch your plié or sustain an arabesque. ' Musicians often create suspense by slightly delaying the first beat of a phrase, a technique that adds excitement and texture to a performance. Julie explains how to recognize these moments and how to use your breath to stay synchronized with the music.
Using breath as a rhythmic tool allows for better communication with an accompanist and ensures your movements look organic rather than mechanical. Whether you are working at the barre or performing a center combination, having a strong internal sense of time is essential. We encourage you to practice these techniques using various music styles, from classical ballet scores to contemporary tracks.
By the end of this lesson, you will have the tools to pick up a count anywhere in a phrase, ensuring you never feel lost in class again. Join us at Broche Ballet to elevate your musicality and dance with confidence.
