Ballet is an art form that has been around for centuries. It is a complex dance form that requires a great deal of training and skill to master.
One of the most important elements of ballet is the turn. There are several different types of turns in ballet, each with its own name and technique.
Pirouette – A pirouette is a classic ballet turn, used frequently in choreography. It is a full turning motion on one foot, with the other foot held in a relevé position (en pointe for female dancers). The dancer may use their arms to help maintain balance and momentum throughout the turn.
Chaînés – A chaînés turn is usually performed as part of a combination of steps, such as travelling across the stage or during small jumps. It involves quickly turning on one foot and then immediately turning on the other foot in quick succession.
Piqué – A piqué turn is similar to a pirouette, but it involves quickly changing feet while spinning around and landing again on the same foot that you started with. It can be done both en pointe and demi-pointe (on flat feet).
Fouetté – Fouettés are very difficult turns to master, as they involve whipping one leg around while keeping the other leg lifted off the ground and extended at an angle behind the dancer’s body.
Rond de Jambe en L’air – Rond de Jambe en L’air translates to “round-of-the-leg-in-the-air” and it involves swiftly extending one leg up parallel to the ground while spinning in place on one foot. This type of turn requires strength and flexibility to execute correctly.
Conclusion:
Ballet turns are an essential part of any dancer’s repertoire, requiring strength, flexibility, precision and skill to execute correctly. The five most common types of ballet turns are Pirouettes, Chaînés Turns, Piqué Turns, Fouettés and Rond de Jambe en L’air Turns. With practice and dedication, any dancer can learn these beautiful turns that make up this exquisite art form.