Technical Manual and Dictionary of Classical Ballet

Terrible

First published in 1950, this ballet reference guide has stood the test of time. Who's it for? Ballet students and teachers, choreographers, or any ballet enthusiast. Here's what the book covers: -descriptions and definitions of over 1100 ballet steps (in alphabetical order) -how to say the darn words (worth the price of the book alone!) -illustrations showing you body positions for the more common ballet steps and movements -cross-references to other names for similar steps/positions that vary from the Russian, French and Italian schools A must have book that can easily be toted around, I doubt most readers will regret buying it. Other ballet resources I recommend include The 5-Minute Plantar Fasciitis Solution for practitioners who have trouble with their feet.

As a pianist who basically got drafted to accompany ballet classes I needed all the help I could get since I knew absolutely nothing about the terminology of ballet. And since my first experience accompanying was for the professionals at the Southern Ballet Theatre, I knew I was in big trouble. This little book helped me immensely with the terms, although I still had tons of problems because I simply did not know what the steps looked like until I saw them rehearsed. For beginners, you are going to need a few references to understand what the instructor is saying because they simply don't have the time to give you private lessons while the rest of the class waits. I recommend this book for all those musicians who haven't got a clue about the language of one of the most beautiful art forms in existence. Heck, I almost sound French when I use the pronunciation guide.

This was a required text for my college ballet classes. I still use this text as an instructor and director. I also teach high school students and I am recommending that this text be used by all students in dance classes. It is superb!

It is one thing to learn those complicated dance steps by watching the instructor, but it is another to get what those names in French mean. This book helped me to understand the meaning of the terms used in classes which in turn made it easier to learn the steps in class. This books takes you to another level in understanding the art of ballet.

I was pleased with this book, which was given to me as a gift. I had no touble looking up terms and words. The description of the terms, if a complicated ballet step, was a little unclear. As a dancer myself, I think the illustrations in the back were exceptional. I often use this book while I reherse my ballet lessons. I sometimes get confused about simple placement, and which way to turn and stand. The simple yet educational illustrations have really helped in my classes. It is really an extraordinary "ballet dictionary". An essntial aide for anyone who wants to improve their form in ballet, or has a desire to learn about the art.