What You'll Learn
- How to use 'pushing the sky' imagery to improve transitions from first to second position.
- The technical execution of a beautiful allongé by extending energy through the fingertips.
- Refining transitions between low fifth, high fifth, and third arabesque positions.
- Detailed hand and wrist rotations to achieve a soft, classical ballet line.
- Strategies for coordinating head placement and breath with upper body movements.
About This Video
Elevate your artistry with this comprehensive center practice dedicated to the grace and precision of ballet port de bras. At Broche Ballet, we believe that the movement of the arms is just as technical and essential as the footwork. In this 17-minute session, you will move beyond basic positions to find the fluid flow that characterizes professional ballet technique.
The class begins with essential stretches for the hands and fingers, ensuring that your expression remains soft and intentional rather than stiff. We then progress into detailed explorations of first, second, and high fifth positions. You will learn the subtle mechanics of rotating the palms and elbows to create a seamless transition between these shapes.
One of the key focuses of this lesson is the technique of pushing the sky open—using the backs of the hands to move from first to second position, creating a sense of volume and space in your dancing. As we move into more complex coordination, we tackle the beautiful allongé. You will learn how to stretch through the elbow and wrist to lengthen the line without breaking the curve of the arm.
The instructor also provides expert guidance on transitioning into third arabesque, emphasizing the correct tilt of the head and the specific rotation required to maintain a balanced, classical silhouette. Throughout the class, we emphasize the importance of maintaining a strong core and proper alignment. Port de bras should never happen in isolation; it requires a stable base and intentional breathing.
By the end of this practice, you will understand how to use your arms not just as decorative elements, but as powerful tools for conveying emotion and maintaining balance in center work. Whether you are refining your third arabesque or seeking a more expressive allongé, this class offers the technical corrections and flow exercises needed to take your ballet technique to the next level.
