subject: Istd Skirts As Part Of The Istd Uniform Needed To Learn Ballet Techniques [print this page] It is hard to disagree when it comes to the statement reading that ballet is a beautiful variety of dance and a delicate form of art as well. The dance clothing worn during ballet practice is usually less refined but more practical, however, during recitals and performances dancers can walk out on the stage in anything from black body suits and feathered garments to very sophisticated ISTD skirts, tops, and leggings. Ballet dance wear has certainly undergone many changes and now there are many varieties offered to respond to any needs.
Nonetheless, one cannot learn to dance ballet all by oneself. There are manifold ballet schools and academies teaching how to dance classical ballet. And most importantly, there are major examining organisations and commissions covering the entire range of ballet dance exams.
As to the United Kingdom, there are two main examining organisations operating there, the Royal Academy of Dancing (RAD) and the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD). The Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing is the world's leading dance examinations board. Formed in 1904, it is today a registered educational chairmanship and is intended to cover the full spectrum of dance examinations on a global scale.
The goal of the Imperial Classical Ballet Faculty, a branch of the ISTD, is to raise the level of ballet dancers and teachers and their degree of appreciation of classical dance. It has a set of regularly revised programmes, adapted teaching methods for all age groups and levels, offering the most complete training to children and adolescents wishing to dance for fun as well as to those wanting to start professional training.
Apart from other regulations, the ISTD has established strict rules with regard to ballet clothing worn by ballet dancers of all ages during their classes or when taking class or grade exams. This includes male and female ISTD leotards and female ISTD skirts that vary from grade to grade and depending on the dancer's age.
As for the feet, the ISTD recommends wearing ballet slippers that are ideal for both genders. Short athletic socks are also great, especially for younger students, as they allow teachers to see the articulation of the foot.
A ballet teacher also needs to be able to see the hip, knee and ankle joints clearly in class or during an examination, to make sure that alignment and positioning are correct. So, it's important to wear something formfitting, but it doesn't have to be skin-tight.
Leotards or unitards along with shorts or tights that have lycra or spandex material in them are the recommended choice for boys. Girls enjoy the possibility to wear leotards with ruche or a belt or thin straps in upper grades along with matching ISTD skirts. Again, snugly fitting clothing facilitates a teacher checking proper alignment and posture of students and observing upper body movements.
Thus, when it comes to ballet recitals and performances the possibilities of dressing are endless. It is common to see flowing or exaggerated ISTD skirts on women because it helps to emphasise their feminine qualities, and can often give the illusion of flying.
On the other hand, costuming is important when learning how to dance ballet. It is common knowledge that ISTD leotards and ISTD skirts should be conducive to running, jumping, and be flexible enough. Moreover, it provides an additional opportunity for teachers to see how students use their skills and whether they move in accordance with the established techniques.
