Summary
The key elements of a pirouette -- ballet's turn on one leg. Sarah covers the preparation, the spot, and the balance that make a clean single turn, building the pieces up slowly so dancers can practice safely and steadily.
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All ages
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Teaching resources
Discussion questions
Talk about it
- What is "spotting," and how does it help you turn?
- Why is a strong, still balance important before you try to spin?
- What is one thing you would practice to make your turn cleaner?
Quick work-a-long
Words to know: pirouette, spot, retiré (foot to knee), balance.
Try it: Practice spotting: pick a point on the wall, turn your head to keep looking at it as you slowly turn your body once.