What You'll Learn
- The specific choreography for Section 4 of the Waltz of the Hours variation from Coppélia.
- Seamless transitions between pas de basque and balancé steps to maintain waltz phrasing.
- Refined technical execution of piqué arabesque, fondu, and piqué soutenu turns.
- Spatial navigation and spatial awareness while moving through third arabesque sequences.
- How to execute a controlled sous-sus and bourrée sequence with precision.
About This Video
Mastering classical repertoire requires more than just knowing the steps; it demands a deep understanding of musicality, weight shifts, and phrasing. In this practice-focused video from Broche Ballet, we dive into Section 4 of the iconic Waltz of the Hours ladies’ variation from the beloved ballet Coppélia. This specific segment is known for its rhythmic complexity and traveling sequences that challenge a dancer’s spatial awareness and technical precision.
The practice begins on the left side of the studio, immediately engaging the dancer in a series of successive pas de basque movements. These steps are essential for capturing the character and lilt of the waltz music. We transition smoothly into balancé sequences, emphasizing the "down-up-up" rhythm that defines this classical style.
A key highlight of this tutorial is the focus on the piqué arabesque. Students will work on achieving a clean, stable line before melting into a controlled fondu. This transition is vital for maintaining the fluid, lyrical quality required throughout the Coppélia variation.
As the choreography progresses, dancers will navigate the floor with a combination of chassé and piqué soutenu turns. Mastering these traveling steps requires sharp spotting and a strong core to maintain alignment. The phrase culminates in a beautiful third arabesque, followed by a crisp sous-sus and a light, fluttering bourrée.
These finishing touches are what separate a student's practice from a performance-ready variation. At Broche Ballet, we believe that focused, repetitive practice is the key to confidence on stage or in the studio. This video provides the structure needed to drill these technical elements until they become second nature.
Whether you are preparing for a performance or simply want to challenge yourself with classical choreography, this session offers the professional guidance necessary to elevate your dancing. Focus on the connection between your footwork and the musical phrasing to truly bring the Waltz of the Hours to life.
