This book is a great study of classical ballet technique. A good choice for both ballerinas, and just anyone with a love of dance and dance related exercise.

No en ihan sanasta sanaan lukenut

This is an excellent book I recommend for every ballet dancer. It has great explanations and great illustrations. Although ballet techniques may vary the basic ballet positions, the structuring of the dance class from adagio to allegro and the organization of the ballet lessons apply to various techniques. I love the Russian ballet technique and dancers who have very expressive hand and arm movements (port de bras) and was excited to read this book. Vaganova explains the basis for performing various movements and positions, which I have wondered about when learning. Her technique, however, seems a bit strict to me. I also like that she indicates that the turnout (key in ballet) and the extent to which various leg and foot positions may be performed depends on the anatomy of the dancer and some dancers may never be able to achieve ca omplete textbook turnout with a lot a practice due to anatomical variations, and they are still excellent dancers.

A staple read/manual on everything Vaganova method. Very anatomical and body mechanics oriented.

I own a copy and consult it frequently.

My dance teacher is officially trained in Vaganova method and this is how she teaches us too.

Combining this manual with our weekly instruction is a sure way to learn systematically and form a very good foundation.

Ahhh, my beloved ballet.

This is famed Russian ballet teacher Vaganova's style of dancing, written out. She discusses her style, how they are similar and different to French (École Française) and Italain (Cecchetti) schools. She describes different steps and gives an example lesson.

Lovely book, though with teachers definitely in mind.

The Bible of classical ballet training

A must read for any classically trained dancer

Helpful in learning the Vaganova Method and improving my technique!

This ballet manual helped me to learn, and understand more, about the many different ballet styles. From Russian and French, to Vagonava and Cecchetti.

THIS BOOK IS BRILLIANT
I am learning ballet alone, I am not a professional nor anything near it, in fact I am a complete beginner, this book is simply the best for teaching you both the history and basics of classical ballet, its worth it for anyone interested in the art form.

A great tool for any ballet teacher or dancer with an interest in the nitty gritty of classical ballet.
My ballet syllabus is largely based on the Vaganova method (some Bournonville and Balanchine influence) as passed down from my teachers and other second hand sources, so it was about time I read about the methodologies from the source herself. This book helped me better understand the technique and also gave me some ideas for improving my syllabus and class structure.

Ballet is the only area into which the Russians have ever contributed anything of value, so five non-Communist stars for the legendary Madame.