Lessons in Classical Ballet for the Figure Skater

Originally published in 2011, this lesson book is like no other on the market. Based on the Vaganova Method but accessible to everyone, this volume of lesson plans provides counts over each step, teaching tips, and a section on port de bras, hand and eye training. Progressive on-ice lessons follow what has been given during off-ice lessons. Class tests and numerous resources make this volume a must for all coaches and teachers interested in providing the full scope of strength, flexibility and artistry for their skaters. Available in print for the first time on Amazon! What This Book FeaturesEight complete and progressive 1½ hour Classical Ballet lessons exclusively designed for figure skaters are presented for the Beginning Level and six lessons each are presented for the Intermediate and Advanced/Continuing students.Each lesson plan contains over 25 exercises/combinations and is designed to be used for at least 2-3 class periods to ingrain neuro-muscular imprinting and musicality.A graded syllabus with tests for each level are included which can be printed out and distributed to your students.Each beginning level lesson plan begins with body awareness floor exercises and ends with correct stretching techniques which are fully explained in the appendix.Counts (instead of measures or bars) for each step in a particular combination are placed directly above the step. The number of total counts required for each combination is presented at the beginning of each exercise so the correct length of music can easily be chosen.Unlike many other enchainment books detailed head position, eye gaze, hand and arm movements are given within each exercise so that the entire body is being employed in a coordinated manner.In addition a comprehensive instructional section on Classical port de bras, hand and head training are presented with accompanying illustrations to help those who may not be well versed in these often neglected areas of training.Teaching notes and prompts are included in each lesson plan including "Bringing it Home to the Skater" inserts designed to help skater and teacher connect certain movements worked on in class with specific skating moves.Four ½ hour on-ice application lessons are given for the beginning and intermediate levels.Annette's unique full length barre and center class utilizing one skate to increase strength and accurate whole body alignment.Included in the appendix is a "Points of the Stage and Placement" diagram, warm-up and stretching exercises and a section on "How to Begin and Maintain a Ballet for Figure Skaters Program for Your Skating Club" which can be used as a spring board in facilitating discussion and goal setting between the ballet instructor, coaches, club board and other off-ice instructors.Also included in the appendix are helpful references and resource materials for further study including music suggestions, character dance resources, books, and educational DVDs. Read more