The first level of ballet is the most important stage in the development of a dancer. It is the foundation that sets up a dancer for success in all other aspects of their training. The first level of ballet is often considered to be Pre-Primary or Primary Ballet.
Pre-Primary Ballet is the first step in a dancer’s journey to become a professional ballet dancer. At this level, students are typically between 4 and 6 years old and are just starting to learn the basic movements and positions of ballet.
This includes learning simple steps such as plié, tendu, and relevé as well as basic arm positions such as first position and second position. The goal at this level is to begin developing proper technique, strength, and flexibility while also instilling a love for movement and music.
Primary Ballet is the next step in a dancer’s development after Pre-Primary Ballet. At this level, students are usually between 7 and 10 years old and have had some experience with Pre-Primary Ballet.
The classes are more structured at this point, focusing on reinforcing proper technique while introducing new steps such as chassé, pas de chat, jeté, grand battement, arabesque, attitude devant/derrière, sissonne fermée/ouverte, pirouette en dehors/dedans, saut de basque/cabriole, etc. Additionally, students will begin learning more complex arm positions such as third position and fourth position as well as adage movements that require strength and control.
Conclusion: The first level of ballet is an essential foundation that sets up dancers for success in their future training. Pre-Primary Ballet introduces students to the basics of ballet while Primary Ballet focuses on reinforcing proper technique while introducing new steps and arm positions. With proper instruction at these levels dancers can build strong foundations that will help them excel throughout their ballet career!