What You'll Learn
- Techniques for keeping elbows lifted and supported to maintain a professional line.
- How to use the triceps to initiate and support fluid arm movements.
- Precise transitions from arabesque to first and second positions.
- The correct execution of allongé and the placement of hands in various positions.
About This Video
In this dedicated technique class at Broche Ballet, we focus on one of the most expressive yet challenging aspects of classical dance: the port de bras. Proper arm placement is the bridge between technical execution and artistic performance. This session breaks down the foundational mechanics of first position, second position, and arabesque to ensure your upper body is as strong and graceful as your footwork.
We believe that mastery of the arms is what separates a student from a performer, and this class provides the tools to bridge that gap. The lesson centers on the crucial concept of lifting the elbows to maintain correct posture and alignment. Many dancers struggle with 'dropping' their arms or letting their shoulders creep up, which can disrupt their balance and the aesthetic line.
Our instructor explains how to engage the triceps to guide the movement, providing the necessary support to keep the arms buoyant and energized. By focusing on the action coming from under the back of the arms, you will find a new sense of stability and breadth in your upper body. This triceps-driven approach allows for a softer, more fluid movement of the hands and wrists while maintaining a strong, structural foundation.
Throughout the class, we practice various movements, including the transition into allongé, rounding into different positions, and moving into a low fifth. A specific highlight of this tutorial is the transition from arabesque to first and second positions. This requires a nuanced understanding of how to maintain the line while shifting the focus of the energy from the back to the front.
You will learn the correct placement of the hands and elbows to ensure that every movement looks intentional and fluid rather than mechanical. Repetition is key to building muscle memory. By revisiting these basic positions with a focus on minute details—such as keeping the elbows forward and away from the body—you will cultivate the elegance that defines a professional-level dancer.
Whether you are looking to improve your presentation in center work or find better balance at the barre, mastering your port de bras is an essential step in your ballet journey. Join us at Broche Ballet as we refine these essential skills together and bring more artistry to your practice.
