If your child is enrolled in ballet classes, they might start using related terms more readily. There are a number of terms used to describe different ballet positions, materials, and moves, giving this type of performance art its own “language.” To help you learn more about your child’s dance lessons, review common ballet terms here. 

What Ballet Terms Should I Know About? 

1. Barre

The barre is a horizontal or wooden bar used for warming up at the beginning of ballet classes. It is either freestanding or attached to the dance studio wall via metal brackets, and keeps dancers balanced as they practice different positions. Barre is also a type of workout where participants use the horizontal bar for support while they perform ballet-inspired exercises that tone and strengthen the body. 

2. Plié

A plié is when a dancer bends their knees via different ballet positions, such as first position where the feet are turned out but the heels remain together. It is one of the first moves ballet dancers learn and is designed to increase muscle, joint, and tendon flexibility. Pliés are also used to improve balance, with grand pliés referring to completely-bended knees that result in horizontal thigh placement. 

3. Attitude

This ballet pose requires the dancer to stand on one leg with the other leg raised. The raised leg creates a 90-degree angle and can either be in the front (devant) or the back (derrière). Dancers in attitude can keep their supporting foot flat, though they can also stand on the ball of their foot (demi-pointe) or their toes (pointe). The latter position is typically part of advanced ballet classes and performances. 

4. Pirouette

When a ballet dancer spins or whirls around, it is called a pirouette. They must perform at least one complete turn, either on demi-pointe or pointe, and keep their arms still. Whether their arms are above, next to, or in front of them depends on the choreography. These usually-quick turns can also be performed with a partner who stands and supports the other dancer. Known as supported pirouettes, they are both fast and slow turns. 
 

For ballet classes in a fun and supportive environment, consider Elite Dance Studio in Lindenhurst, NY. This studio has helped children hone their dance skills for 15 years, with classes including jazz, hip-hop, and acro in addition to ballet. Call (631) 450-4740 or register your child for ballet classes online.