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Things I've Learned in Ballet Class (at UVU)

The teachers here are simply amazing. I am looking at dance in a new light and using my muscles in a way that makes so much sense! The teachers here are masters at imagery and connecting what we do at barre to center work.


On develope, think of your leg as a vine, growing up your leg.
When going to passe from second, fifth or first, think of the standing leg pushing all the way down to Beijing. I don't know why, but thinking Beijing! when I hit the position helps me stabilize and remember to pull up and push down. Opposition in ballet is key.
We TAKE ballet class. We don't just go or do. We say "I'm going to take class." So take it! Take initiative, make decisions, concentrate, extend, listen and improve.
Lift up out of your pointe shoes to roll down.
Understand human anatomy so you can really understand what your muscles are doing and how to connect, utilize and stretch them correctly.
Think of horizontal, sagital and vertical planes when watching choreography so you can pick it up quickly. Think of it in class as well so you can visualize a position.
"If you're just here to get sweaty, the teacher won't notice you. You aren't just getting a workout, you should be performing"
Remember that ballet is about geometry.
The music is what moves you.
Adagio should be like the anticipation of getting ice cream for the audience. They don't know what's coming next, is smooth and soft, lots of flavors and textures, exciting.
Think of what barre exercises you are using in every center combination.
Think of a dog shaking off water when you do a pirouette, there's a little whip. your head spots, your leg shoots up and your arms draw together.
Use shoulder blades for balancing, especially in high fifth
Whatever you do, do it with intent, purpose and passion.
"We're in the business of changing people. Starting with ourselves."
Today (now Sept 23) Mark said "Golda I'm starting to dig the way you work baby." If you're not a dancer, that might sound weird, but it was such a compliment! I've been working on listening and taking corrections immediately and it's so nice when teachers notice.
That's all I can think of right now. I am keeping a ballet journal to write in so I can remember everything.

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