What You'll Learn
- The fundamental principles of épaulement and how to position the shoulders correctly.
- Techniques for coordinating head movements with port de bras for a cohesive line.
- How to execute a cambré while maintaining core engagement and proper alignment.
- The importance of styling the upper body to create long, expressive lines from head to toe.
- How to utilize the obliques and core muscles to support torso twists and turns.
About This Video
In this second installment of our Deep Dive series at Broche Ballet, we transition from foundational arm positions to the nuanced artistry of the upper body. While many dancers focus heavily on footwork, the true grace of a dancer is often found from the waist up. This class focuses specifically on the intersection of port de bras and épaulement, providing you with the tools to transform a static pose into a living, breathing work of art.
We begin by exploring the concept of épaulement, or the shouldering of the body. This involves a subtle yet powerful twist of the torso and placement of the shoulders that adds three-dimensional depth to your dancing. You will learn how to properly turn and twist the body while maintaining a strong center, ensuring that your head remains elegantly framed between your hands.
This is not just about aesthetics; it is about understanding how your obliques and core muscles support your alignment during complex movements. The lesson dives deep into styling each position with the upper body. We examine how a simple tendu changes character when you add the correct head movement and épaulement.
You will practice the cambré, learning to lean and stretch with intention rather than just bending. Our instructor provides detailed feedback on how to create a long line from head to toe, encouraging you to fill both sides of your body—even the side that feels less intuitive or harder to engage. Throughout the session, we use specialized styling techniques to move beyond mechanical execution.
By the end of this class, you will have a better understanding of how to use your eyes and head to direct the audience's attention and how to coordinate these subtle shifts with your port de bras. Join us at Broche Ballet as we refine your technique and help you find a more expressive, professional way to move through space.
