Positions of the Arms

The positions of the arms and head in ballet can be quite subjective, as they are one of the most important factors when creating artistry. However, in the pedagogies, the arms and head have been specified based on position of the feet, technical skill, and placement of the head. While each school may vary, the basic principal of the arms all remain the same: en-dehors. Even the arms must spiral outward from the back.

Even the head may vary in the position based on the school of thought, but understanding that the head includes the neck and eye line of the dancer helps achieve a stronger line, and a slight change in the head or eyes can change the dynamic and character of a step.

French School

Russian School

Cecchetti Method