What You'll Learn
- The mechanics of converting horizontal momentum into vertical lift for higher jumps.
- Proper arm placement and timing to facilitate rotation and maximum hang-time.
- A step-by-step breakdown of the tour jeté preparation, including chassé and sous-sous.
- Techniques for landing securely in a stable, balanced arabesque.
- How to practice the movement pathway without jumping to improve coordination.
About This Video
Elevate your ballet practice with this deep dive into one of the most exciting movements in grand allegro: the tour jeté (also known as the grand jeté entrelacé). This 14-minute practice session with Broche Ballet focuses on the mechanics required to achieve height, rotation, and grace in this powerful jump. The tour jeté is often a stumbling block for adult dancers because it requires a complex transfer of momentum.
You are not just jumping forward; you are converting horizontal energy from a chassé into vertical force. In this class, we break down the sequence step-by-step, starting with a preparation that includes chassé, moving through sous-sous, and finding the correct fourth position before launching into the air. Key to a successful tour jeté is the coordination of the upper body.
Our instructor emphasizes that the arms must arrive slightly ahead of the legs. By bringing the arms into position early, you create the necessary lift to stay in the air long enough to complete the leg swap and rotation. We also explore the importance of the brush front (the grand battement) and how a straight, powerful leg throw is the engine behind your elevation.
Throughout the video, you will practice on both the right and left sides, ensuring balanced development. We also spend time practicing the movement without the jump initially. This allows you to master the pathway of the steps—moving from arabesque to second position and through the turn—without the added pressure of gravity.
Whether you are wearing ballet slippers or preparing for future work en pointe, these fundamentals are essential for any dancer looking to command the center floor. Join Broche Ballet as we refine your technique, improve your timing, and help you find that weightless feeling in your grand allegro combinations. With consistent practice and attention to these technical details, you will find your jumps becoming higher, your landings more stable, and your overall dancing more expressive.