: Unlike other methods that focus heavily on footwork, Vaganova emphasizes expansive upper-body expression
Vaganova is famous for her saying, "The dance is the art of the feet." The chapters on allegro are perhaps the most valuable for advanced students. She breaks down the mechanics of ballon (the ability to bounce in the air). The text explains how the plié is the engine of the jump and how the feet must articulate through the floor to create a sharp, crisp sound.
Jumping in the Vaganova system is not merely about height; it is about resilience and landing mechanics.
The Vaganova method is built on the following fundamental principles:
