Reflections for the quarter

Congratulations on your incredible work this semester. Just to reiterate here are some of the things I see improve. I use the present tense because these new learnings are not over just because our class has ended.
• I see lengthening spines.
• I see fuller, rounder ports des bras.
• I see knees over toes.
• I see longer lines.
• I see arms working with legs more and more.
• I see students enjoying themselves.
• I see improved alignment.
• I see good stretching technique.
• I see hips facing front.
• I see short term memories getting better.
• I see strength in balances.
• I see personal confidence improve tremendously.

Michelle, Robin, Elizabeth, and Chihiro – I hope you take some time to heal over the holidays and you’re back dancing soon.
Vika – I’m sorry you won’t be in my Somatics class next quarter. I think it could be the perfect next step for you. I am teaching another 490 in the Spring. Keep it in mind.
Malin – Rock on! Good on you for not napping during ballet time.
Nicole – Good luck with your auditions. You determination will definitely help reach those dreams. All the best!
Shaina, Chihiro, Kris, Oscar, and Jared– Congratulations on your first ballet class! You are now seasoned ballet dancers. Keep on dancing!
Kristen – It’s always a pleasure.
Saza – You’re welcome and thank you for your hard work and constant good cheer.
Amanda – Keep working on those arms. They were definitely getting rounder.
Rachel – I am happy to agree. Be happy and shine.
Jared – I am honored to be a part of your rebuilding. You are naturally talented. We hope to see you involved more in the dance department.
Nathalie, Anna, and Kim – Thanks for your hard work. I see a new layer of ballet knowledge in your dancing.
Joanne – Please feel free to skip around any time you like.
Congratulations again on all your hard work. Have a great holiday break.
Sincerely,
Louis

Final Posting

At last, we come to the end. Wonderful work this quarter! I saw improvement on many levels from everyone. I'd like to you to take a moment and tell me how you have improved in your ballet technique. What steps have you really integrated and what ideas will you work on in the future? Take a moment and write a couple of paragraphs on what you've learned.

Congratulations!

Louis

Ballet Improvisation

Hey Dancers,

On Monday of last week, we did a ballet fast. The entire class had no steps, only music and an order. On Wednesday, we alternated between very simple exercises and improvisation. What did you learn from these approaches? What did you like? What was most challenging?

Louis

Port de bras

This week we focused on port de bras or "the carraige of the arms." What connections did you make this week between your arms and your dancing?

Head Strings and Corsets

Dancers,

We worked with head strings and corsets this week. We also moaned alot and tried to have a creative performative experience in ballet class. What did you learn this week?

What did you learn this week?

We explored some new steps and imagery for use in alignment. We explored sissonne, contre temps, saute entournaut. We now have head strings and rib cage support. We also thought about lengthening our spines. What worked for you? What helped the most with your ballet knowledge?

Louis

Ballet Contra Dance

Hey Dancers,

Tell me about your ballet contra dance experience.

Louis