The Importance of the Ballet Bun: Aesthetic, Control, and Discipline

In the world of ballet, every detail matters, from the way we move to the way we present ourselves. One crucial aspect of this presentation is the ballet bun. While some may see it as a mere hairstyle, the ballet bun serves a significant purpose that goes beyond just keeping hair out of the dancer’s face. So if you’re wondering why we wear a bun in our hair for ballet… Here it is:

Aesthetic and Tradition

Ballet is an art form that values precision and grace. The ballet bun contributes to the clean lines and elegant silhouette that are essential to the discipline. A neatly styled bun not only enhances a dancer's appearance but also reflects the tradition and history of ballet. It creates a sense of unity among dancers, allowing the focus to remain on the performance rather than any distractions.

Balance and Alignment

Beyond aesthetics, the ballet bun plays a practical role in a dancer’s performance. Keeping hair secured in a bun allows for unrestricted movement, ensuring that the dancer can focus on their technique without the worry of hair whipping into their eyes. This is particularly important for maintaining proper alignment and balance, as any distraction can impact a dancer's ability to execute movements with control and precision.

A Lesson in Discipline

Ballet is about more than just the steps; it’s about discipline and dedication. Mastering the art of creating a ballet bun is part of this training. While it can be challenging, especially for beginners, we encourage students to practice regularly. Trying different styles or techniques can help them find what works best for them. Remember, using plenty of pins can make a significant difference in keeping hair secure throughout class.

Encouragement and Growth

We understand that getting a perfect bun can be tough, especially when you’re on the go or just starting out. That’s why we encourage our students to keep trying! Each attempt is a step toward mastering not only the hairstyle but also the discipline it represents. With practice, the ballet bun will become second nature, allowing dancers to focus fully on their artistry.

In conclusion, the ballet bun is far more than a hairstyle; it’s an essential part of the ballet experience that contributes to the overall discipline, aesthetics, and focus required in this beautiful art form. So let’s embrace the challenge, support one another, and continue to strive for that perfect bun!

Looking for a tutorial on the perfect Ballet bun? Click here

Brittany Mulder

Brittany Mulder, owner, and director of Maddox Dance Company, currently teaches Creative Dance Education to students, parents, and teachers all over central Alberta. Mulder has extensive knowledge in teaching preschool-aged dancers and draws from her experience in assisting occupational therapy groups with To The Starts Occupational Therapy, her training in Brain-Compatible Dance Education, her own personally driven research. In June 2015, Mulder received her Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in Dance and a minor in Management and Society from the University of Calgary. Mulder’s movement and teaching style has been influenced by Wojciech Mochniej, Melissa Monteros, Joanne Baker, Melanie Kloetzel, and Anne Green Gilbert. During her fourth year of university, she danced with SURGE Dance Co. and W&M2; pre-professional contemporary dance companies from Calgary, AB. In April 2015, she toured Poland with W&M2 and performed the piece FALLING. In the summers of 2014 & 2015, Mulder attended the Summer Institute for Dance Teachers (SIDT) in Seattle WA, led by Anne Green Gilbert, certifying her in Brain-Compatible Dance Education. The SIDT has inspired Mulder to enhance her methods of teaching in order to benefit her and her students mentally and physically. Before attending the University of Calgary, Mulder also studied Dance at the University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV) for a year. While studying at UNLV, Mulder had the opportunity to work with such artists as, Richard Havey, Cathy Allen, Beth Mehocic, and Margot Mink Colbert. In 2010 Mulder took the opportunity to work for the Walt Disney World Resort through the Disney College program. Through the experience of working with the Disney Company, Mulder gained innovative business sense as well as world-renowned customer service ideals. Prior to university, Mulder became an ADAPT certified dance teacher, educating her in the esthetics of Jazz and Tap.

https://www.maddoxdance.com
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