Suki Schorer on Balanchine technique /

Since the court dances of 16th-century Europe, ballet's traditions and techniques have been passed on from ballet master to dancer. The inimitable "Mr. B" (George Balanchine) was our century's most elegant ballet master. His legacy includes a company (New York City Ballet), a school (School of American Ballet), and 425 works; Schorer, a member of NYCB from 1959 to 1972, danced and taught for Mr. B. Based on recollections of his teaching and on her experiences as a teacher, the book details work at the barre, work with the upper body, pointe work, jumps, and the art of partnering. An extended essay titled "From the Studio to the Stage" offers personal reflections on dancing. The text is enhanced by Rosegg's crisp photographs of current NYCB company members demonstrating techniques. Although "not a teaching manual or syllabus," this is nonetheless intended for teachers, advanced students, and professional dancers. Highly recommended for performing arts collections and wherever there are readers who know the difference between a pas de chat and a pas de cheval.ÄCarolyn M. Mulac, Chicago P.L. (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.