What You'll Learn
- How to pull shoulder blades apart for a long, sleek line
- Mastering upper arm rotation for stable and correct first and second positions
- The technical mechanics of allongé and how it forms the base of an arabesque
- Differences between Vaganova and Balanchine arm styles in classical poses
- Techniques for lengthening through transitions to improve timing and artistry
About This Video
In the world of classical dance, the upper body often distinguishes a student from a performer. This Broche Ballet technique deep dive focuses on the intricate details of Port de Bras, ensuring your arms are not just 'moving' but are actively engaged and correctly placed. This 25-minute session goes beyond the basic positions to explore the mechanics of muscle engagement and skeletal alignment that create the iconic ballet silhouette.
One of the primary focuses of this class is the relationship between the shoulder blades and the length of the arm. You will learn how to pull the shoulder blades apart to create a continuous, long line from head to toe. The instructor demonstrates how rotation in the upper arm acts as the foundation for this line, preventing the common mistake of 'dropping' the elbows or losing the shape in first position and second position.
A significant portion of this tutorial is dedicated to the allongé (arm extension). Many dancers struggle with the transition into allongé, often lifting the wrist or losing the integrity of the arm's shape. We break down the precise mechanics: straightening the shape and changing the palm's direction without unnecessary tension.
This leads into a detailed discussion on the arabesque. You will learn how a true arabesque is constructed from a combination of first position allongé and second position allongé, following the classical Vaganova tradition. Finally, we explore the nuance of style versus technique.
While we study the classical foundations, the instructor discusses how to incorporate stylistic flourishes—such as a circle in the wrist—without compromising technical placement. Whether you are aiming for a strict Vaganova look or the more expansive Balanchine style, understanding these 'details, details, details' is key to your growth. This class is designed for the dedicated dancer who wants to move with more intention, length, and grace at the barre and in the center.
