What You'll Learn
- The technical relationship between shoulder blade engagement and elbow rotation.
- How to achieve the correct 'rounded' shape of bras bas without hunching.
- Precise hand placement in low fifth relative to the legs and torso.
- How to balance chest and back width to create a professional balletic frame.
- Common corrections for avoiding collapsed or stiff arm positions.
About This Video
In classical ballet, the arms—or port de bras—serve as the elegant frame for the entire body's movement. While dancers often focus their primary attention on complex footwork, the foundations of arm positioning are what truly elevate a performance from student level to professional artistry. This 11-minute focused class at Broche Ballet dives deep into the technical execution of the low fifth position, also known as bras bas or the preparatory position.
Achieving the correct alignment in low fifth is more complex than it appears, requiring a delicate balance of muscular engagement and spatial awareness. Throughout this session, you will explore the specific placement of the shoulders and elbows to find the perfect 'pocket' for your arms. A common correction for dancers is ensuring the elbows are rotated forward while the hands remain slightly back, creating the necessary volume and curve that characterizes classical port de bras.
One of the key takeaways from this video is the intricate relationship between the shoulder blades and the elbows. You will learn how to squeeze the shoulder blades together to stabilize the back while simultaneously rotating the elbows forward to maintain a soft, rounded shape. This dual action prevents the shoulders from hunching and ensures that your chest and back remain equally wide and expansive, providing a stable base for the rest of your technique.
The instructor also guides you through the precise positioning of the hands in relation to the legs. You will learn how to judge if your elbows are correctly aligned on top of or slightly behind the hands, preventing the arms from collapsing toward the body. By mastering these subtle adjustments, you can improve your overall balance and aesthetic line during center work.
Whether you are preparing for a performance or simply looking to refine your daily technique, these insights into the preparatory port de bras are essential for any dedicated dancer looking to improve their grace and control.
