Editor's note: I've lately been following choreographer and former principal NYC ballet dancer John Clifford on Instagram (john_cliff26) where he posts clips of notable performances along with helpful commentary. This recent post, which I'm sharing with his permission, is fascinating, even for those, like myself, who don't have the language of ballet. Clifford explains how Balanchine would choreograph "against" the music; the steps are off the beat, in much the same way that, say, Sinatra's phraseology would at times either race ahead of the musical count or hold back. I've watched Clifford's clip of Patricia McBride a dozen times and now I understand how the choreography creates a delightful tension that ultimately resolves as McBride takes her bow. Brilliant and beautiful! -- sdl
Find out more about John Clifford here. Order Balanchine's Apprentice (University Press of Florida, September 2021), here.
What a glorious way to bid farewell to 2021 and to welcome a brand new year. Thank you so much for presenting the genius of George Balanchine and the beautiful dancing of Patricia McBride. You have lifted my tired spirit. As Suzanne Farrell once said, "The arts are the hospitals for our souls." Happy, hopeful, healthy new year to all.
Posted by: Emily Fragos | December 31, 2021 at 10:29 PM
I've been following Clifford too on I'gram, and the archival footage and commentary (like the note above which really delves into Mr. B's mind) are very illuminating. Clifford also has an egalitarian spirit which spills over into affection and enthusiasm for students and young dancers.
Another I'gram site I'd recommend is JULIOPANNOOK which has some very curious, very comical choreography, especially playful with props.
Posted by: Summer Brenner | January 29, 2022 at 08:25 PM