What Are Ballet Terms?
Ballet terms are words, phrases, and abbreviations used to describe the movements, positions, techniques, and steps of ballet. It is important for dancers to learn these terms in order to understand instruction and communicate with other dancers. Ballet terminology is used in all forms of ballet such as classical ballet, contemporary ballet, jazz ballet, and folkloric dance.
The majority of ballet terms are in French due to the long history of the art form being associated with France. There are many different styles of French that are used in ballet terminology so it can be difficult for non-French speakers to understand at first. Most classical ballets have been choreographed and performed using French terminology since the 18th century.
The five basic positions of classical ballet form the foundation for all other steps and movements. These positions are called first position, second position, third position, fourth position and fifth position.
They help the dancer create a graceful line by maintaining correct posture while moving their arms and legs with precision. Other common steps include pliés (bending), sautés (jumping), tours (turns), grand battements (large kicks) and arabesques (balancing on one leg).
The upper body is also trained using specific terms such as épaulement (shifting the shoulders) and port de bras (arm movements). These terms enable dancers to execute movements gracefully with control while keeping their upper body in alignment with their lower body. Other common body positions include pas de chat (stepping from one foot to another) and jeté (leaping from one foot to another).
In addition to steps and body positions there are also musicality terms which help dancers move in time with the music. Common musicality terms include adagio (slower tempo), allegro (faster tempo), rond de jambe en l’air (leg circling) rond de jambe à terre (leg circling on the floor), petit allegro (short jumps), grand allegro(long jumps) and pirouette(spinning).
Knowing these various ballet terms helps dancers understand instructions more quickly while they practice or take class. It also allows them to communicate more effectively with other dancers when rehearsing a performance or learning choreography. Knowing these fundamental concepts will give any dancer an even greater appreciation for this beautiful art form!
Conclusion: Ballet terminology is an essential component for any type of dancer looking to understand instruction or communicate with other dancers effectively. From basic positions like first position through more advanced concepts like épaulement, understanding these words will give any dancer a deeper appreciation for this art form!