What You'll Learn
- Correct coordination of arms and legs during the piqué setup
- Techniques for maintaining momentum throughout the soutenu rotation
- How to transition from a turn into a controlled balance
- Mastery of decorative 'quasi' poses with proper port de bras
- Refinement of tendu and fondu within turning sequences
About This Video
Welcome to the final installment of our three-part series dedicated to the soutenu. In this 20-minute practice session with Broche Ballet, we dive deep into the technical mechanics of the piqué soutenu turn. This turn is a staple of ballet vocabulary, often used to transition between combinations or as a standalone display of precision and grace.
We begin by breaking down the setup, as success in a piqué soutenu starts long before the rotation. You will learn how to coordinate your tendu and port de bras, ensuring the arm and leg open in perfect unison to create the necessary torque and stability for the turn. We also focus on the importance of the fondu—the melting preparation that provides the power for your piqué onto a straight leg.
One of the highlights of this class is the exploration of momentum. Many dancers struggle with stopping too early or losing their axis. We discuss how to use your head and arms to maintain momentum, and even how to intentionally turn slightly further to facilitate a smooth transition into a balance or the next movement.
Beyond the turn itself, this class covers the aesthetic side of ballet. We explore the 'quasi' pose—a beautiful, decorative pose often used for photography or non-functional artistic moments. You will learn the correct port de bras and body alignment for these poses, ensuring that even your moments of stillness are technically proficient and visually stunning.
Whether you are working on your first turns or looking to refine your technique for more advanced variations, this step-by-step guide provides the clarity you need to build muscle memory for consistent, beautiful turns.
