The arms drop and lift at precise moments to lift the body's weight into the air.
The Vaganova method, often called the "Russian School," is a system of classical dance training created by Agrippina Vaganova (1879–1951). Vaganova was a soloist at the Mariinsky Theatre before becoming an influential teacher and the artistic director of the Leningrad Choreographic School (now the Vaganova Academy of Russian Ballet). Her method focuses on:
One of the defining characteristics of Vaganova's training is coordination. She taught that dancers must move their arms, legs, head, and torso in harmony, creating a fluid, expressive, and artistic performance.
The arms (port de bras) often initiate the movement before the legs. basic principles of classical ballet vaganova pdf
Finally, the step is integrated into complex combinations, accelerated in tempo, or executed with jumps and turns. Structure of a Vaganova Ballet Lesson
Every exercise builds on the previous one. Vaganova emphasized starting slowly at the barre, moving to the center, and gradually increasing complexity (e.g., from demi-plié to grand plié , then to battement tendu ).
The foundation of Vaganova training is a strong, stable, and vertically aligned torso. This requires engaged abdominal muscles, a lifted chest, and a quiet pelvis. B. Epaulement (Shoulder Orientation) The arms drop and lift at precise moments
The is not merely a list of steps—it is a philosophy of training. Vaganova believed that correct effort, not natural talent, produced the greatest dancers. Her system builds a logical, injury-resistant body capable of both explosive jumps and heartbreaking adagios.
Vaganova viewed the body as a whole; movements are not just propelled by the legs but supported by the arms, core, and even facial expressions.
For dancers, teachers, and scholars seeking a , understanding the core tenets of this methodology is essential for executing the choreography safely and brilliantly. 1. Epaulement and Harmonic Coordination Her method focuses on: One of the defining
Turnout—the outward rotation of the legs from the hip sockets—is fundamental to classical ballet, but Vaganova emphasized safety and anatomical honesty over forced lines.
Complex steps are broken down into basic elements. For example, a turn ( pirouette ) is mastered first as a balance at the barre, then in the center, before momentum is added.
