What is an alesecone turn? Can anyone give me a good description along with exercises that will prepare me for this type of turn?

Hi Cuda...This according to Gail Grant's "Technical Manual and Dictionary of Classical Ballet": " a la second, meaning to the second. A term to imply that the foot is to be placed in the second position, or that a movement is to be made to the second position en l'air. As, for example, in grand battement a la seconde. A la seconde is one of the eight directions of the body, Cecchetti method."

These a la seconde turns are often a virtuoso step for the male dancer in his variation or coda in classical works. They are turns usually worked on in more advanced levels. They require a lot strength of placement and good spotting ability. A good exercise to prepare for these turns (this for fouette turns, also) is consecutive single pirouettes from fifth position, making certain that when you plie you are facing directly front. I'm a woman, but I loved working on these turns and could do them (3/4 pointe) as well as fouettes! Fouettes are easier on pointe than a la seconde turns, however (for me, anyway). Perhaps one of the gentleman contributors could give you some preparatory exercises that I am not aware of...

P.S. I just noticed that you were the newest member! Welcome!

<small>[ 20 July 2004, 12:33 AM: Message edited by: GN ]</small>

Does the leg stay in second as the turn rotates or does it come to first and open up to second when facing forward?

leg stays a la seconde.

Thanks GN & Citibob!