What You'll Learn
- Proper port de bras technique and independent arm coordination
- How to execute a stable fondu transition from a bent to straight leg
- Maintaining balance and alignment without the support of the barre
- Performing a traditional ballet révérence to conclude your practice
About This Video
Take your ballet practice to the next level by stepping away from the barre and into the center. This 15-minute class from Broche Ballet is specifically designed for beginner dancers who want to build confidence in their center work through slow, deliberate movements and clear instruction. Transitioning from the support of the barre to the open floor can be intimidating, but this class provides the structure needed to feel secure and balanced.
The session begins with a follow-along combination that bridges the gap between static positions and fluid movement. You will focus heavily on port de bras, learning how to detach the arms from the body and move them with grace and intention. The instructor emphasizes moving one arm at a time to maintain control and poise, a fundamental skill for any aspiring dancer.
Throughout the lesson, you will work on essential transitions like the fondu. In ballet, a fondu involves a "melting" action where you push up from a bent knee onto a straight leg. This exercise is crucial for developing the leg strength and stability required for more advanced center work.
You will also practice combinations involving tombé, piqué, and plié, focusing on proper foot placement and coordination between the upper and lower body. Balance and alignment are central themes in this practice. You will learn how to maintain your center of gravity even while executing sweeping arm movements across the body.
The class concludes with a traditional révérence, teaching you how to acknowledge the audience and the music with a formal curtsy and nod. This final pose is not just a polite gesture but a core part of ballet etiquette and performance. Whether you are practicing at home or looking to supplement your studio classes, this video provides the repetition and technical guidance needed to master basic ballet geometry.
By focusing on patience and precision, you will develop the foundational skills necessary for more complex choreography.
