Fun Friday Memory Foam
I’ve written several blogs about the ballet barre and how it
should best be utilized. Just search for “barre” and you’ll find them.
Today I’m talking about how to hold the barre. No death
grips, please. In fact, many studios are now replacing their round barres with
flatter ones so the dancer’s hand rests on top and it isn’t possible to grab it
with the thumb underneath. I’ve often thought the problem many dancers
have with thumbs sticking out during port de bras comes directly from their
hold on the barre.
If you still have round barres (and most of us do), imagine
it is made out of memory foam. You know, that stuff that leaves a deep impression
when you press your hand into it. If the barre left such imprints, dancers
would be more aware of those moments when they are gripping the barre instead
of gently holding it.
From the Big Blue Book of Ballet Secrets:
Ballet Secret #22ccc:
“Imagine the barre is
made out of memory foam.”
Link of the Day:
Quote
of the Day:
“Memory is more indelible than ink.”
― Anita Loos
― Anita Loos
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I enjoyed the link of the day. What an amazing dancer. I can see what you are talking about with the separation in his hands, how they are kind of cupped into a C-shape at moments in his performance. That really helped me imagine the grip. I know I need softer hands and this really helped me think about that grip I make on the barre while in class. Thank you for the advice.
ReplyDeleteYou're welcome! I'm glad it was helpful.
ReplyDelete