How to Perform Petit Battement with Épaulement at the Barre

Refining your artistry at the barre requires a delicate balance of technical precision and expressive movement. In this Broche Ballet lesson, we dive deep into the execution of Petit Battement with Épaulement, a combination that challenges your coordination and body alignment. Understanding how to use your head, neck, and shoulders—collectively known as Épaulement—transforms a mechanical exercise into a beautiful dance.

We begin by exploring the foundational movement of Petit Battement. While the footwork remains rapid and sharp, the challenge lies in the body's orientation. You will learn how to transition smoothly between facing the barre directly and swiveling into open positions.

This lesson highlights the differences and similarities between the Vaganova school and the American style of ballet, particularly regarding arm placement and port de bras over the barre. Both styles offer valid pathways to achieving a professional line. A key focus of this tutorial is the integration of diverse movements.

We move from Petit Battement into a Tendu front plié, requiring a precise swivel of the hips and torso. You will also practice transitioning into an Arabesque with a focus on proper port de bras, ensuring your upper body remains lifted and supported. This flow is essential for developing the stamina and grace needed for center work.

The lesson concludes with a complex frappé combination. We break down the front, side, back, and side movements, leading into a relevé passé and an inside turn. Whether you are performing singles or doubles en dehors, the focus remains on the presentation of the foot.

Remember, Petit Battement often occurs in quick two-count intervals, so every moment must be intentional. By mastering these transitions at the barre, you build the muscle memory necessary for fluid, effortless movement in your center combinations.