Pirouettes. For many dancers, the mere mention of this iconic turn can evoke a mix of excitement and trepidation. Even for seasoned performers, the quest for the perfect pirouette in dance is often a journey of continuous refinement. If you’re navigating the complexities of ballet training, particularly within programs like the Cecchetti method, you’ve likely encountered the pirouette and its unique set of challenges. Like many, I’ve found myself both fascinated and frustrated by this fundamental movement, especially as we delve into Grade III of the Cecchetti syllabus. The pirouette, far from being a simple spin, is a nuanced skill demanding precision and understanding.
One of the most debated aspects of Pirouette Dance technique revolves around the preparation of the supporting foot: should you spring to demi-pointe or pointe, or press to relevé? This seemingly small detail can significantly impact your balance, control, and overall execution of the turn. Different dance techniques and instructors often advocate for varying approaches, leading to a rich tapestry of methodologies. This exploration into pirouette preparation mirrors my deep dive into the intricacies of cou-de-pied – a testament to the fact that even foundational elements in dance are ripe for exploration and understanding. While the pirouette dance encompasses a multitude of subtle points that cannot be fully addressed in a single article, let’s begin at the foundational level: the supporting foot, and the choice between springing and pressing.
Two Schools of Thought: Springing vs. Pressing in Pirouette Dance
When it comes to initiating the pirouette dance, there are generally two primary techniques concerning the supporting foot.
Springing to demi-pointe or pointe involves a dynamic action where you essentially “snap” the foot directly underneath your body’s center of gravity. This approach aims to create a direct vertical line of balance from the outset.
Conversely, pressing to relèvé emphasizes maintaining a stable base. Here, the supporting foot stays grounded in its initial position as you rise to demi-pointe or pointe. Achieving balance with this method requires a precise shift of your center of gravity over the supporting foot. A clear example of the pressing technique can be observed in Angel Corella’s demonstration for the American Ballet Theatre’s online dictionary, available in this video. His execution beautifully illustrates the control and stability this approach can offer.
Pirouette Dance Technique: Spring or Press Relevé – Which Should You Choose?
Irrespective of whether you opt to spring or press in your pirouette dance, a slight weight adjustment is inevitable. You are transitioning from a two-legged stance to balancing on one leg. When you press, your upper body and center of gravity (CoG) must actively shift over the supporting leg to find equilibrium. In contrast, when you spring, the intention is for the supporting leg to meet your CoG directly beneath you, aiming for immediate centeredness.
Advocates of the springing method often argue that pressing can lead dancers to feel disconnected from their weight, as if they are “climbing” onto the supporting leg rather than being grounded. They might also contend that pressing lacks the necessary elevation for a crisp pointe pirouette, especially in more advanced pirouette dance variations. Conversely, it’s easy to spot dancers who over-spring, essentially jumping onto their pointe shoes. This can lead to uncontrolled turns and unnecessary stress on the joints, highlighting a potential drawback of the springing technique in pirouette dance.
Finding Your Pirouette Dance Path: Experimentation is Key
Ultimately, the “best” approach – springing or pressing – is not universally defined in pirouette dance. Both methods offer distinct advantages, and the ideal choice is often a matter of personal preference and what resonates best with your body and technique. Experimenting with both springing and pressing can be incredibly insightful, allowing you to discern which technique facilitates better balance, control, and overall pirouette quality for you.
Furthermore, it’s worth considering that different pirouette variations might be better suited to one technique over the other. For instance, when executing an en dehors pirouette (turning outward) from fifth position, springing can be particularly advantageous. The spring action can aid in swiftly bringing your weight over the supporting leg, contributing to a sharper and more efficient turn in your pirouette dance. Conversely, for an en dedans pirouette (turning inward) from fourth position, pressing to relevé can encourage a more forward weight placement over the front leg, which can be beneficial for certain dancers and styles. Understanding the directional nuances of en dehors and en dedans is crucial in refining your pirouette dance technique.
Ultimately, the most compelling argument is that successful pirouettes speak for themselves. If your pirouette dance technique is yielding positive results – like the impressive turns demonstrated by Alys Shee in this video – then questioning your fundamental approach might be unnecessary. As the saying goes, “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!”
14 Year old Alys Shee’s 8 Pirouettes
Troubleshooting Pirouette Dance Challenges
Encountering difficulties with your pirouette dance? Nichelle’s articles from our archives offer further valuable tips to help you improve and refine your turns:
Your Pirouette Dance Journey: Spring or Press? What Works for You?
We’d love to hear about your experiences and preferences!
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By Lauren Warnecke
Lauren Warnecke is a freelance writer and editor specializing in dance and cultural criticism in Chicago and the Midwest. Lauren contributes dance criticism to the Chicago Tribune, serves as editor of See Chicago Dance, and is the founder/editor of Art Intercepts. Her work has appeared in Chicago Magazine, Milwaukee Magazine, St. Louis Magazine, and Dance Media publications, among others. With degrees in dance and kinesiology, Lauren is also a dance and exercise science instructor at Loyola University Chicago. Explore more of Lauren’s articles.
