What You'll Learn
- The technical difference between the 'through allonger' and 'direct to 2nd' arm paths.
- How to lead with the elbow to maintain a strong, lifted 2nd position.
- When to choose each transition method based on musical tempo and style.
- Refining the timing of your port de bras when lowering from a relevé.
About This Video
Refining the transitions between arm positions is a hallmark of an advanced dancer. At Broche Ballet, we prioritize these technical nuances because they define the fluidity and grace of your port de bras. In this quick technique lesson, we examine the transition from high 5th position to 2nd position, a move frequently encountered during center work and across-the-floor combinations.
There are two primary ways to execute this change: the through allonger method and the direct method. The first technique involves moving through an allonger. In ballet, allonger means to lengthen or elongate.
When moving from a high 5th position using this method, the dancer extends the fingertips outward, reaching through the space before allowing the arms to descend. This method often bypasses a static 2nd position, creating a continuous, sweeping line that is aesthetically pleasing for lyrical or adagio movements. Because the path is longer, it requires a sense of breath in the arms and a strong connection to the upper back to prevent the shoulders from hiking up.
It is a time-consuming but beautiful movement that adds professional polish to your dancing. The second technique is the direct route to 2nd position. This is the preferred method when the music is faster or when you need to find immediate balance after a relevé.
The key technical cue here is the elbow. To move directly from high 5th to 2nd, you must focus on pulling the elbow back and slightly lifting it as the arm descends. This prevents the arm from dropping or losing its round shape.
By leading with the elbow, you ensure that you arrive in a strong, supported 2nd position exactly on the count. Mastering these two pathways allows you to adapt your technique to the specific needs of any choreography. Whether you are aiming for the expansive reach of an allonger or the sharp precision of a direct transition, focusing on the journey between positions is what makes your ballet technique truly stand out.
