2 3 A Plié is a Movement | Ballet Webb

Thursday, September 19, 2013

A Plié is a Movement


One of the biggest problems with pliés is the tendency dancers have to stop or “sit” at the bottom.  This completely compromises the function of the step.  Since a plié is used to cushion landings as well as to propel jumps, turns, etc., it is essential to perform it in a non-stop manner.

One thing that can help a student feel the correct sensation is this:  bring a chair over to the barre and ask the student to do a grand plié in second position, but to sit down on the chair at the base of the plié.  They will quickly notice how everything drops and the posture compresses.  Then ask them to do the second half of the plié from their sitting position on the chair.  They will immediately realize how much harder it is to come back up after sitting down.

The video Link of the Day from yesterday’s post is a great example of a feline’s non-stop plié in preparation for a jump. 

From the Big Blue Book of Ballet Secrets:

Secret #2b:  A plié is a movement, not a position.


                Link of the Day:


 
Quote of the Day:

 “We need to set our course by the stars, not by the lights of every passing ship.”
-          Omar N. Bradley

 
 


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