What You'll Learn
- How to use shoulder blade width to drive expansive port de bras movements
- Techniques for maintaining supported elbow form to avoid dropping the arms
- The 'laser beam' visualization for energized knuckles and expressive fingers
- How to anchor arm stability by lifting the tips of the shoulder blades down and under
- Integrating upper body carriage into sous-sus, tendu, and grand battement exercises
About This Video
Elevate your artistry and refine your upper body technique with this specialized 50-minute class from Broche Ballet. In Upper Body Class #2: Shoulder Blade Placement, we delve deep into the mechanics of the back to transform your port de bras from simple arm movements into expressive, expansive gestures. Many dancers struggle with floating arms or tense shoulders; this session provides the technical foundation to anchor your movement in the strength and width of your back.
The core focus of this practice is understanding how the shoulder blades act as the engine for the arms. You will learn that the width of your back directly dictates the quality of your elbow movement in port de bras. By keeping the back wide and lifting the tips of the shoulder blades down and under, you create a stable base that allows for fluid, supported movement.
We explore the allongé action, emphasizing that true length comes from the back rather than just reaching with the hands. Throughout the class, we apply these principles to standard barre exercises, including plié, tendu, and grand battement. You will be encouraged to visualize shooting laser beams out of your knuckles to keep energy flowing through your fingertips without losing the essential curve of the elbow.
This mental cue helps maintain an expansive presence, ensuring your energy doesn't drop when finishing a sequence. Whether you are working through a series of sous-sus or performing a complex port de bras, the goal is consistent form and intentionality. By the end of this session, you will have a better grasp of how to use your skeletal structure to enhance your classical line.
Join our Broche Ballet community and discover how subtle adjustments in your shoulder placement can lead to a more professional and grounded dance presence.
