I took ballet growing up also, and enjoyed this scientific reading of the art and discipline of ballet. My teacher was extremely strict, and extremely ordered. We had memorized classes, where every class followed the same routine (the advanced level rotated among 4 memorized classes), which is a bit unique I think. But it served a purpose you identify in the post: practicing the same movements over and over and over again to really master them.
You're inspiring me to practice at home. What's your setup? Do you have a portable barre, do you use a chair, etc.? Hardwood floor?
Thanks for sharing! I tried a portable barre but it took up too much space and was too unstable. I'm also pretty tall, so I purchased a foldable stepstool for about $30. It's the perfect height for me and doesn't take up a lot of space. I'm lucky to have a spare bedroom with a wooden floor to practice in. I just set up my laptop on the corner of the room and follow along with the class!
That's so interesting! I think that the Royal Academy of Dance (UK) has a similar method where each level has set combos they practice each class for that term, could your teacher have trained there/ been certified with the codified technique
I’m glad you asked because I can share this random research dive I went on. My teacher’s teacher was Lelia Haller, whom she venerated. There were framed photos and quotes from Haller in our studio. I found this on Haller awhile ago: “Lelia Haller, studied in Paris and became the first American to be appointed Premiere Danseuse of the Paris Opera Ballet.” There’s also this out of print book about Haller called “The Compleat Ballerina” I’d love to get my hands on but can’t. But anyway, I’m guessing that the memorized class is a French influence but I can’t be sure!
I took ballet growing up also, and enjoyed this scientific reading of the art and discipline of ballet. My teacher was extremely strict, and extremely ordered. We had memorized classes, where every class followed the same routine (the advanced level rotated among 4 memorized classes), which is a bit unique I think. But it served a purpose you identify in the post: practicing the same movements over and over and over again to really master them.
You're inspiring me to practice at home. What's your setup? Do you have a portable barre, do you use a chair, etc.? Hardwood floor?
Thanks for sharing! I tried a portable barre but it took up too much space and was too unstable. I'm also pretty tall, so I purchased a foldable stepstool for about $30. It's the perfect height for me and doesn't take up a lot of space. I'm lucky to have a spare bedroom with a wooden floor to practice in. I just set up my laptop on the corner of the room and follow along with the class!
That's so interesting! I think that the Royal Academy of Dance (UK) has a similar method where each level has set combos they practice each class for that term, could your teacher have trained there/ been certified with the codified technique
I’m glad you asked because I can share this random research dive I went on. My teacher’s teacher was Lelia Haller, whom she venerated. There were framed photos and quotes from Haller in our studio. I found this on Haller awhile ago: “Lelia Haller, studied in Paris and became the first American to be appointed Premiere Danseuse of the Paris Opera Ballet.” There’s also this out of print book about Haller called “The Compleat Ballerina” I’d love to get my hands on but can’t. But anyway, I’m guessing that the memorized class is a French influence but I can’t be sure!
Fabulous!