What is a barre?
The barre is a handrail, approximately waist-high, that dancers use to steady themselves during the first part of a ballet class. The barre provides a reference point; it can be used to provide resistance, as when you press down on it to lengthen the spine; and it is your first partner. “Barre” is also a shorthand term for exercises done at the barre; dancers frequently refer to “doing a barre,” for example to warm up just before performing. • Why do dancers take so many classes? Because dancers must practise under supervision. In ballet so much depends on the movements and positions of the dancer. A pianist, who may also practise for several hours each day, can monitor his or her playing by listening; but when dancing you cannot always watch yourself, mirror or no mirror, and in any case you need constant guidance and correction from an informed and impartial observer. So where the pianist can practise alone each day, the professional dancer must take daily classes. For the serious da
