THE VAGANOVA METHOD

Vaganova has come define the Russian method of training dancers in ballet technique, while at the same time developing individual artistry through creative combinations of movement, musicality, and emphasis on upper body placement.

Vaganova's followers continue to refine the method she developed, focusing as she did, on the discipline, posture, alignment, flexibility, and strength required for Classical Ballet while keeping abreast of contemporary developments in choreography. Each teacher choreographs his or her own class according to guidelines given to them based on the original intentions of the method's founder. This requires great dedication on the part of the teacher, but because teachers are forced to vary class exercises, tempos, etc, dancers trained in the Vaganova method easily and smoothly transition to other methods and styles of dance.

The Kirov and Bolshoi Schools, both of the great Russian schools, employ the Vaganova method. One only has to think of the quality and beauty of Russian ballet to understand that this method is clearly superior. Great dancers who were trained under this method include familiar stars such as Natalia Makarova and Mikhail Barishnikov, as well as countless soloists and principals in Russian and American companies and the unmatchable corps de ballet dancers of the Kirov and Bolshoi ballets.

Whether you are studying ballet for pure enjoyment or are working towards a professional dancing career, you will find that this method will bring you the most success.