Author Description

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1916 Excerpt:... is the pivot. The rotation of the body on the supporting leg is determined by the action of the arms and the swing of the torso. The spring is accomplished by the abrupt lateral movement of the arm which crosses in front of the chest (Fig. 319), and which impels the body toward that side (Figs. 336, 337, 338). The legs are in II or IV. Pirouette outward: The dancer turns to the right, crossing the right arm and turning on the half-toe or the toe of the left foot (Figs. 319 and 320). Or, the dancer turns to the left, crossing the left arm and turning on the toe or the half-toe of the right foot. 'Translator's note: The Pirouette belongs to the steps classed as "natural" in that it is a movement that seems to be instinctive among children. All children pirouette in their play. Pirouette inward: Here the dancer turns to the right, crossing the right arm and turning on the toe or the half-toe of the right foot (Figs. 319 and 321). Or, the dancer turns to the left, crossing the left arm and turning on the left foot. In other words: If the Pirouette is outward the dancer turns on the foot opposed to the arm which crosses in front. // the Pirouette is inward, the turn is made on the foot which is on the same side as the crossed arm. 261. Execution of the Pirouette--When the rotation begins, the foot which is not the pivot is lifted, and, according to the kind of Pirouette to be made, the leg in the air is separated, being higher or lower, and held motionless during the step, or it may execute certain movements (263). The first spring of the arms and torso is made with vigor, enabling the dancer to spin around four or five times before the heel of the supporting leg touches the ground, Zorn cites one dancer who pirouetted on her instep seven times withou...