100 Lessons in Classical Ballet: The Eight-Year Program of Leningrad's Vaganova Choreographic School : Book Review

"100 Lessons in Classical Ballet" by Vera S. Kostrovitskaya is a comprehensive and valuable guide for aspiring ballet dancers. Divided into 100 lessons, the book covers a wide range of topics related to classical ballet technique, providing detailed instructions and illustrations to help readers improve their skills.

One of the strengths of this book is its clear and concise explanations. Kostrovitskaya breaks down each lesson into easily digestible sections, making it accessible for readers to follow along and practice on their own. The accompanying illustrations further enhance the clarity of the instructions, allowing readers to visualize and understand the correct positions and movements.

What sets "100 Lessons in Classical Ballet" apart from other ballet books is its emphasis on proper technique and alignment. Kostrovitskaya consistently stresses the importance of correct body placement and alignment, highlighting its significance for both aesthetic beauty and injury prevention. This attention to detail makes the book a valuable resource for dancers at all levels.

Additionally, Kostrovitskaya goes beyond technical aspects and explores the artistry and expression involved in ballet. She delves into musicality, performance quality, and the emotional connection that dancers should strive for while performing. This well-rounded approach to ballet training makes "100 Lessons in Classical Ballet" an invaluable resource for dancers who want to enhance their skills and develop as artists.

In conclusion, "100 Lessons in Classical Ballet" is an excellent guide for both beginner and intermediate dancers. With its clear instructions and illustrative visuals, it is easy to understand and apply the techniques presented in the book. Whether you are just starting out or looking to refine your skills, this book will undoubtedly be a valuable addition to your ballet library.

What are readers saying?

The book "100 Lessons in Classical Ballet" by Vera S. Kostrovitskaya has received a range of responses from readers, with differing opinions on its effectiveness. Some reviewers highly praise its extensive coverage and clear explanations, while others express frustration with the absence of illustrations and outdated terminology.

Many readers appreciate the book's in-depth exploration of ballet techniques and its detailed explanations. They find the information well-organized and easy to understand, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced dancers. Several reviewers note that the book provides a solid foundation of knowledge, enabling them to improve their technique and understand the intricacies of classical ballet.

However, a common criticism of "100 Lessons in Classical Ballet" is the lack of visual aids. Some readers feel that illustrations are vital when learning ballet techniques, and the absence of visuals in the book hampers their comprehension of certain movements. They suggest that incorporating diagrams or photographs would greatly enhance the learning experience.

Another point of contention among reviewers is the book's use of outdated terminology. While ballet terms can vary over time and across countries, some readers find the reliance on older terms confusing, particularly for those new to ballet or from different cultural backgrounds. Updating the terminology would make the book more accessible and relevant to a broader audience.

Despite these criticisms, many readers still find "100 Lessons in Classical Ballet" to be a valuable resource. They praise the book for its thoroughness and its role as a reference guide. It is seen as an essential addition to any ballet dancer's library, providing abundant knowledge and insights into the world of classical ballet.

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