What You'll Learn
- Distinguish between the smooth resistance of a tendu and the sharp strike of a dégagé.
- Adjust weight placement during relevé by moving the body center forward over the toes.
- Use rond de jambe to fluidly connect the primary positions of front, side, and back.
- Maintain upper body stability during grand battement by utilizing développé mechanics.
- Achieve consistency in foot placement by magnetizing the foot to the ankle in cou-de-pied.
About This Video
Welcome to a refreshing 40-minute ballet barre class designed to bring clarity and precision to your foundational movements. This session, titled "Spring Music & Simple Barre Exercises," is perfect for dancers looking to refine their technique through thoughtful repetition and musicality. At Broche Ballet, we believe that the barre is the laboratory for the dancer. In this class, we move through a traditional sequence including demi-plié, grand plié, and relevé, with a strong emphasis on correct weight placement. You will learn to shift your center forward when rising to demi-pointe, ensuring a stable and secure balance by moving the body the distance between the heel and the toes.
A unique aspect of this class is the focus on foot dynamics. We explore the "smearing" resistance of a tendu—likened to spreading peanut butter—contrasted with the sharp "strike" of a dégagé or frappé. This tactile approach helps students articulate their feet more effectively, creating a clear distinction between legato and staccato movements. We dive deep into the primary leg positions: front, side, back, cou-de-pied, and retiré. Using rond de jambe as a tool, you will learn to "connect the dots" between these positions while maintaining straight knees and a stable pelvis.
The class also covers fondu and grand battement. You will learn to "magnetize" the foot to the ankle during cou-de-pied transitions and maintain upper body stability during large kicks. By treating the grand battement like a high-speed développé, you can achieve height without sacrificing your posture. Join us at the barre and breathe new life into your spring training with these simple yet essential exercises.
