Ballet technique

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Ballet

Classical ballet Contemporary ballet Neoclassical ballet Schools French ballet Russian ballet Technique En pointe Glossary of ballet Methods Balanchine method Cecchetti method Vaganova method Other Music

Ballet technique is the method by which ballet steps are performed or taught. There are several different methods (or schools) of ballet technique that represent the historical development of ballet. These methods include:

• American ballet
  • Balanchine method
• Danish ballet
  • Bournonville School
• English ballet
  • Royal Academy of Dance method
• French ballet
• Italian ballet
  • Cecchetti method
• Russian Ballet
  • Vaganova method

Technique may also refer more generally to a dancer's training and ability. In general, proper ballet technique requires good placement (or alignment), and turnout. Alignment refers to the dancer's ability to keep the head, shoulders, and hips aligned vertically. Turnout refers to the dancer's ability to complete movements with the legs rotated outward. Technique can also mean perfection in areas such as clean footwork, graceful porte-bras, and overall correct positions and lines/angles.