What You'll Learn
- How to stabilize the shoulder blades while maintaining a long, neutral spine
- Techniques for independent arm movement within the shoulder socket to prevent torso distortion
- Correct alignment of the elbow, wrist, and shoulder in fondu and développé combinations
- Methods for engaging specific upper body muscles to create fluid and strong port de bras
- How to coordinate the legs and arms to achieve a sense of extension and elasticity
About This Video
Elevate your ballet practice with this specialized Technique Barre class from Broche Ballet. While many students focus predominantly on the feet and legs, true artistry and stability come from a strong, controlled upper body. This 41-minute session is specifically designed to challenge your upper arm strength and refine your port de bras through unique combinations that demand coordination and muscle engagement. By focusing on the relationship between the shoulder blades, the spine, and the distal points of the fingers, you will learn to move with more grace and intentionality.
Throughout the class, we explore the mechanics of the shoulder socket, learning how to allow the arm to move freely without pulling the torso out of alignment. You will work through essential exercises such as fondu and développé, where the emphasis is placed on maintaining a long spine and keeping the shoulder blades stabilized. This helps in creating a sense of lift and breath in your dancing, preventing the common mistake of 'heavy' arms during complex footwork. We also dive into the precise positioning of the elbow, wrist, and shoulder to ensure every movement is clean and classical.
The instructor guides you through a series of exercises designed to build sensation and muscle memory. You will learn the importance of keeping the legs active and 'warm' even when the focus is on the upper body, ensuring that your foundation remains solid. We also discuss the concept of elasticity, showing you how to use the limbs together to create expansive, fluid movements that travel through the space. This session is perfect for dancers looking to bridge the gap between simple barre work and the expressive demands of center practice. By the end of this lesson, you will have a deeper understanding of how to engage the correct muscles to support your frame, leading to improved balance and a more professional aesthetic in your ballet technique.
