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Summary

The Ballet Companion

a Dancer's Guide to the Technique, Traditions, and Joys of Ballet
This book is written by Eliza Gaynor Minden who developed the highly popular Gaynor Minden point shoes and is a former ballet dancer herself. She is highly acclaimed around the world and the publication of this book has only added to her fame. This book is chocked full of amazing tips, tricks and techniques for learning ballet. It ranges from beginning to advanced; there is something for every ballerina to learn from. The book begins with guidelines for choosing a good training school and dance classes as well as expectations and etiquette of those classes. It overviews, both recreational and competitive strands of ballet and also discusses advice and requirements for both competitions and auditions. The main part of this book is instructional on ballet repertoire; it is very easy to read and has step by step instructions that teach you the movements while also handing out advice and techniques for improvement. Pointe and pas de deux repertoire is also included. This book teaches both male and female repertoire however many of the steps overlap and are performed by both. The book, discusses not only ballet steps but also how to improve poise, posture, musicality, stage presence and performing techniques. Also included are guidelines for being a healthy dancer and preventing injury. The book is over 300 pages and provides a highly concise, but also accurate, learn able and inspiring perspective on the art of ballet.