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Cecchetti (1850-1928) performed and taught in Russia and with Diaghilev's troupe. Assisted by of one of Cecchetti's star pupils, Stanislas Idzikowski, Cyril Beaumont codified Cecchetti's program for this book, which includes a numbered series of instructions for each exercise in addition to numerous illustrations. 109 black-and-white illustrations.
Chapter 1: The History and Principles of the Cecchetti Method
* Summary: Explores the origins and development of the Cecchetti Method by Enrico Cecchetti, emphasizing its focus on anatomical alignment, detailed footwork, and expressive artistry.
* Example: The "Cecchetti arm" position: raised slightly above the head, elbows soft, and fingers delineated to create a graceful and elegant line.
Chapter 2: Basic Bar Exercises
* Summary: Introduces the fundamental bar exercises that form the foundation of Cecchetti training, including pliés, tendus, and dégagés.
* Example: Plié in fifth position: bending the knees while keeping the feet firmly planted on the ground and the back straight.
Chapter 3: Center Practice
* Summary: Focuses on exercises performed in the center of the room, such as adagios, pirouettes, and jumps.
* Example: Adagio in second position: a slow, flowing sequence of movements that emphasizes balance, control, and musicality.
Chapter 4: Character Dances
* Summary: Explores the character dances incorporated into Cecchetti training, including Spanish, Italian, and Hungarian styles.
* Example: Spanish Bolero: a lively and energetic dance characterized by intricate footwork and castanets.
Chapter 5: Advanced Bar and Center Exercises
* Summary: Introduces more complex bar and center exercises, such as grand battements, fouettés, and tours en l'air.
* Example: Grand battement sauté in fourth position: a high, leaping kick that requires excellent elasticity and coordination.
Chapter 6: Pointe Work
* Summary: Covers the principles and techniques of pointe work, including the preparation of the feet, the proper placement of the body, and the execution of pointe exercises.
* Example: Relevé in fifth position: rising onto the tips of the toes while maintaining a straight back and pointed feet.
Chapter 7: The Cecchetti Syllabus
* Summary: Outlines the structured syllabus of the Cecchetti Method, which provides a progressive and comprehensive training program.
* Example: Grade I syllabus includes exercises such as simple tendus, pliés in first position, and a basic port de bras.
Chapter 8: Teaching the Cecchetti Method
* Summary: Discusses the principles of effective Cecchetti instruction, including the importance of clear communication, positive reinforcement, and attention to detail.
* Example: A teacher demonstrates the correct foot placement for a dégagé in fourth position, providing verbal cues and physical adjustments to the student.
