FAMOUS BALLET METHODS AND STYLES
by Janice Yoo
THE ROYAL BALLET
The Royal Ballet is the foundation for all Ballet Methods, as it is the first known method ever to be founded. Therefore, over the many years of its existence, it has taken on the influence of the many other methods that have succeeded it. The Royal Ballet is unique, however, in that it is a perfect balance between rigorous technique and training and fluidity and elegance. It also stresses balance and symmetry in its choreography.
VAGANOVA METHOD
Agrippina Vaganova, the founder of the Vaganova school and method, studied at the Imperial School of Russia (now the Soviet Ballet). The method focuses on the strength and placement of the back and arms, as well as flexibility and endurance. The Vaganova method is often seen as the parent of the modern pas de deux, because Agrippina Vaganova very much stressed the pas de deux in her teachings.
CECCHETTI METHOD
Founded by Enrico Cecchetti in the mid 19th century, the Cecchetti Method uses a strict and classical training method for its students for core muscle strength and ability. It is widely used in Italy, Europe, and Australia. It is very rigid in training method and has very particular plans for the dancers' education. Cecchetti's breakthrough philosophy of having the dancer imagine the entire body as a cohesive unit changed the face of modern ballet.
THE BALANCHINE METHOD
George Balanchine, the founder of this method, is commonly seen as the father of modern classical ballet. The method was originally used for the New York City Ballet, and has many strange and unconventional arm positions, and much drama throughout the choreography. This method urges its dancers to be flexible and extremely agile.