The Art of the Steps
The Transition from Rococo to Biedermeier
The era around 1800 marks a fascinating turning point in dance technique. While the complex and deliberate step sequences of the 18th century were still present, a lighter, more fluid style of movement increasingly made its way, though it would not fully establish itself until 1830.
The central mechanical difference lies in the execution: The old form is based on the Plié-Relevé, a distinct bending and stretching into the step on the balls of the feet. The new style employs the Levé form, an accentuated, lighter rise onto the balls of the feet followed by lowered steps. Choose a category to study the respective executions of both styles.
The Forward Steps
Elegant Movement through Space
As with all other steps, you have a wealth of choices, but beware: mixing the styles can be particularly appealing but also demanding. Certain steps can only be executed in the old style, while others belong exclusively to the new.
Forward Steps of the Old Style
The Steps of the Rococo
Forward Steps of the New Style
The Steps of the Empire & Biedermeier
The Sideward Steps
Gliding and Fluid Movements
As with all other steps, you have a wealth of choices, but beware: mixing the styles can be particularly appealing but also demanding.
Sideward Steps of the Old Style
The Steps of the Rococo
Sideward Steps of the New Style
The Steps of the Empire & Biedermeier
The Ornamental Steps
The Artful Accents of the Dance
As with all other steps, you have a wealth of choices, but beware: mixing the styles can be particularly appealing but also demanding.
Ornamental Steps of the Old Style
The Steps of the Rococo
Ornamental Steps of the New Style
The Steps of the Empire & Biedermeier
Bows & Révérences
Social Etiquette and Greetings