Vaganova: One can neither stop nor prevent "Evolution"...
One can neither stop nor prevent "Evolution"... That’s a fact of life. Unfortunately, many teachers, who had their training in the Vaganova method/style/technique, forget that, and ignore all developments that have been constantly made, and still use a “frozen” version of her teachings, which does not have an “entitlement” in our present ballet world. A friend of mine, the great Caroline Llorca, travels constantly to Russia to “update” her knowledge (She was the first Westerner to conclude her studies as a teacher at the Vaganova Academy)! That is how it should be (seriously) done.
The Vaganova technique has seen shifts towards increased athleticism, higher leg extensions, and a greater emphasis on turns and jumps, moving away from the purely classical purity of the past to incorporate more "tricky" steps and a focus on performance-oriented choreography.
However, the core principles of the Vaganova method, including a progressive, disciplined approach to mastering fundamentals, a strong emphasis on coordination, and integrated musicality and expression, remain central to its development and teaching.
All this apart from the fact that “Vaganova”, as a method, just fits perfect bodies. Do we find them in other countries, outside Russia, where the “system” closes soullessly the students who are “lucky enough” to be taught?
The slight changes to the Technique
Athleticism and Complexity:
The technique now demands more athletic execution, incorporating more challenging steps, a higher range of movement, and an increased number of turns and jumps than in its earlier iterations.
Leg Height:
There is a trend towards achieving very high legs, achieved through strength-building exercises and stretching, which is a distinct change from earlier styles.
Focus on Performance:
While foundational technique remains crucial, there's an increased emphasis on performance-ready artistry, involving elements that can be considered more "tricky" rather than just "classical purity".
The Enduring Principles of the Vaganova Method:
Progressive Curriculum:
The method is structured progressively, with a curriculum that gradually builds skills from basic posture and body use to complex advanced techniques.
Integrated Approach:
The Vaganova method emphasises the whole body, ensuring that arms, legs, core, and even facial expressions work in unison to support and express movement.
Discipline and Foundation:
Rigorous training and discipline are key, with a strong focus on mastering the fundamentals of ballet to develop a powerful work ethic and a high level of physical fitness.
Musicality and Expression:
Dancers are trained to understand and embody the rhythm and emotion of music, developing expressive power to convey stories and characters on stage.
Precision and Control:
A high level of precision and control is required in every movement, ensuring each jump, turn, and extension is executed with clarity and technical exactitude.
