BEGINNING BALLET (WITH WEB RESOURCE)

Beginning Ballet and the accompanying web resource introduce students to the study of ballet as a performing art and provide instructional support in learning foundational ballet technique. Part of Human Kinetics’ Interactive Dance Series, Beginning Ballet is for students enrolled in a beginning ballet class at the college, university, or high school level.

The book features more than 80 photos and concise descriptions covering basic foot and arm positions, barre exercises, and centre combinations. Beginning Ballet introduces students to the structure of a ballet class, including expectations, etiquette, and attire. Students also learn how to prepare for class, maintain proper nutrition and hydration, and avoid injury.

This text outlines the unique history of ballet from its beginnings in the Renaissance to the 21st century and discusses the styles, aesthetics, artists, and significant works that have shaped ballet as a performing art.

In addition, the accompanying web resource presents more than 70 instructional video clips and 50 photos to help students learn and practice beginning ballet. The web resource also includes an interactive quiz, audio clips of ballet terms with pronunciation in French, and assignments. The quiz covers vocabulary of beginning ballet, definitions, and translation to and from the French language.

Ballet class provides the foundation for learning the dance form, and Beginning Ballet supports that learning through visual, verbal, and interactive instructional tools. Beginning Ballet text and web resource help bring the grace, artistry, and mental and physical benefits of ballet to students.

Beginning Ballet is a part of Human Kinetics’ Interactive Dance Series. The series includes resources for modern dance, ballet, and tap dance that support introductory dance technique courses taught through dance, physical education, and fine arts departments. Each student-friendly text includes a web resource offering video clips of dance instruction, assignments, and activities. The Interactive Dance Series offers students a guide to learning, performing, and viewing dance.


Contents

Preface
How to Use the Web Resource

Chapter 1. Introduction to Ballet
Benefits of Studying Ballet
Ballet in Academic Settings
Ballet in Community Settings
Basics of Ballet Class
Expectations and Etiquette for Students
Structure of Ballet Class
Challenges of Learning and Performing Ballet
Summary

Chapter 2. Preparing for Class
Dressing for Class
Foot Care and Personal Hygiene
Carrying Dance Gear
Selecting and Fitting Ballet Slippers
Preparing Yourself Mentally and Physically
Summary

Chapter 3. Safety and Health
Studio Safety
Personal Safety
Basic Anatomy and Kinesiology
Preventing and Treating Common Dance Injuries
Understanding Dance Fitness
Nutrition, Hydration, and Rest
Summary

Chapter 4. Learning and Performing Ballet Technique
Languages of Ballet
Learning Ballet Movements
Learning Ballet Technique
Understanding Musicality
Understanding Artistry
Applying Aesthetic Principles to Ballet
Preparing for Class Performance Testing
Summary

Chapter 5. Basics of Ballet Technique
Positions of the Feet
Positions of the Arms and Port de Bras
Movement Principles for Ballet Directions of the Body
Directions of the Feet
Types of Barre Combinations
Types of Center Combinations
Summary

Chapter 6. At the Barre
Standing at the Barre
Pre-Barre Exercises
Barre Exercises
Summary

Chapter 7. In the Center
Rules and Protocols
Center Barre
Port de Bras
Adagio
Introduction and Transition Steps
Allegro
Révérence
Summary

Chapter 8. History of Ballet
Beginnings of Ballet
Ballet Moves From the Court to the Theater
A Century of Contrast: Romanticism to Classicism
Ballet in the United States Before 1900
Ballet in the Twentieth Century
International Perspectives in the Twentieth Century
Viewing Ballet Performances
Distinguishing Types and Styles of Ballet
Summary

Glossary
References and Resources
Index
About the Author