Ballet

Course Description

Course Outline

1. Introduction to Ballet

History and origins of ballet
Overview of ballet techniques and vocabulary
Understanding ballet positions and posture
Benefits of ballet training for strength, flexibility, and grace

2. Ballet Fundamentals

Proper body alignment and placement
Developing turnout and proper use of feet and legs
Basic arm positions and coordination with movements
Musicality and understanding rhythm in ballet
Introduction to barre exercises and their importance

3. Barre Work and Technique

Barre exercises for warm-up and strengthening
Developing balance, control, and stability
Working on leg extensions and développés
Plié variations and relevés
Introduction to basic turns and pirouettes at the barre

4. Center Work and Adagio

Transferring exercises from the barre to the center
Incorporating port de bras (arm movements) into adagio sequences
Focused work on balance, control, and extensions
Developing fluidity and grace in movement
Introducing basic partnering exercises

5. Allegro and Jumping Technique

Basic jumps, including sautés, changements, and échappés
Developing elevation and height in jumps
Introduction to petit allegro (small, quick jumps)
Progressing to grand allegro (larger, more complex jumps)
Focus on precision, timing, and coordination in jumps

6. Turns and Pirouettes

Building upon the foundation of turns learned at the barre
Working on single and multiple pirouettes
Spotting technique and spotting drills
Developing stability and control in turning movements
Variations of turns, including fouettés and piqué turns

7. Allegro Combinations and Batterie

Advancing to more complex allegro combinations
Introduction to batterie (beating of the legs)
Working on beats, jetés, and assemblés
Developing speed, accuracy, and precision in batterie
Incorporating artistic expression into allegro sequences

8. Choreography and Performance Preparation

Learning and rehearsing ballet variations and excerpts
Understanding the importance of storytelling and character portrayal
Emphasizing musicality and dynamic expression in performance
Practicing stage presence and projection
Participating in mock performances and showcases

9. Ballet History and Repertoire

Studying major ballet styles, choreographers, and influential works
Analyzing famous ballets and their significance
Exploring different approaches and interpretations of classical repertoire
Gaining familiarity with notable ballet dancers and their contributions
Discussing current trends and developments in the ballet world

10. Conditioning and Injury Prevention

Stretching and flexibility exercises for dancers
Strengthening specific muscle groups for ballet technique
Cross-training for overall fitness and injury prevention
Proper nutrition and self-care for ballet dancers
Recognizing and addressing common ballet-related injuries