Ballet Basics: Port De Bras (Arm Positions)

Port De Bras is a classical ballet term meaning “movement of the arms.” It describes how dancers move their arms from one position to another.

For example, if a ballerina moves her arms from first position to fifth position, that is considered a port de bras.

When doing proper port de bras, dancers will move their arms from their back and shoulders (without lifting the shoulders awkwardly upwards) while trying to move as smoothly as possible. The shape of the arms should be rounded so there is no visible break at the elbows and wrists. In classical ballet, the arms should never be fully straight or hyper-extended at the elbows. Also, the hands should be shaped with the fingers extended running mostly in the same direction, but not stuck together like a paddle or overly extended.

In contemporary ballet, there are many exceptions to the rules of port de bras, but generally port de bras should always look coordinated with the lower half of the body and still look balletic in nature (meaning, not raising the shoulders awkwardly or having excess tension in the arms) unless instructed specifically to look different or to make a certain shape requested by the choreographer. 

Wih Movement with Purpose, we have chosen select dancers from Fort Worth ISD to be on our dance teams. Every Friday, these dancers focus on technique, flexibility, and have a dance focus. (Ballet/Modern or Jazz/Hip Hop)

Every month we select a "Diva of the Month", who is chosen by the teachers due to perfect attendance, hard work, and consistent support of their fellow dancers.

Last month's DIVA OF THE MONTH is Jazmine Whitfield. Jazmine is our spotlighted dancer who will show us what she and the team are learning in Ballet Technique. Jazmine is working hard on gaining strength in her technique and terminology. 

First Position- The students arms should be together in a rounded shape at the height of their belly button. Their elbows should be slightly lifted while their shoulders are pressed down. 

Second Position- The students arms then open to the side, being careful to not over extend their arms back or lift their shoulders. 
Third Position- Either their right or left arm comes above their head, their elbow slightly bent. 
Fourth Position- The other arms comes in to their belly button (just like first position only with one arm)
Fifth Position- Lastly the arm comes above the student's head to meet the other arm. It should look similar to first position except the arms are directly over the dancer's head.