EXAMPLES OF BATTEMENT TENDU IN FIFTH POSITION COMBINING AND COMPLICATION

Abstract

The article examines various ways of building classical dance combinations (as well as moving up to new difficulty levels) with battement tendu in the 5th position as the core element. The author of the article studies relevant examples of class combinations that have been assigned by prominent mid-twentieth century teachers of male classical dance. The article compares the ways Asaf Messerer, Alexey Pisarev, Nikolay Tarasov or Pyotr Pestov would combine different steps using battement tendu as the centerpiece. The article further makes an attempt at systematizing the different teachers’ approaches. The author goes on to conclude that the battement tendu-based bar exercises assigned by Asaf Messerer are best fit for students in need of a sparing workout routine (for example, those going back to class after a long break), while Alexey Pisarev’s combinations are ideal for muscle strengthening exercises. Julius Plakht is known for having added complicated plastiques, as well as artistic elements to his class combinations (such as full detournés with arms in the 3rd position, petits développés at 22 degrees, etc.), bringing them closer to stage movements. Nikolay Tarasov’s exercises focus on building techniques in line with specific class objectives. Finally, the combinations suggested by Pyotr Pestov are suitable for demonstration lessons and exercises assigned during examinations.