Adage, Adagio

Adage or Adagio

Pronunciation: a-dahj-e-o/a-dahj
Translation: at ease

Extension
The term used to describe the ability to raise and hold an extended leg.

Adage is a French word derived from the Italian ad agio, meaning at ease or leisure. English ballet teachers use "adage," the French adaptation, while Americans prefer the original Italian. It is important to remember the word refers to the tempo of music, thus determining the quality of the steps.

Usually, steps within adagio are slow, sustained with a graceful quality that seems effortless. The first reference is to exercises that improve these qualities. The second term we use for adagio for is the opening of a grand pas de deux, again a musical score note.

The musical definition of adagio: adj. : In a slow tempo, usually considered to be slower than andante but faster than larghetto. Used chiefly as a direction or to be performed slowly in a leisurely manner.