August Bournonville

Definition

August Bournonville was a renowned Danish ballet master and choreographer, celebrated for his contributions to the development of ballet during the 19th century. He is particularly known for his creation of the Bournonville style, which emphasized a lyrical quality and expressive storytelling through movement, helping to define the characteristics of Romantic ballet.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Bournonville was born in 1805 and trained under famous ballet teachers, which greatly influenced his later work as a choreographer.
2. He created several significant ballets, including 'La Sylphide,' which is considered one of the masterpieces of Romantic ballet.
3. Bournonville’s choreography is known for its focus on natural movement and fluidity, promoting a style that contrasts with the more rigid techniques of his contemporaries.
4. He introduced innovative teaching methods at the Royal Danish Ballet, emphasizing the importance of character portrayal and musicality in dance.
5. Bournonville's works are still performed today, showcasing his lasting impact on the ballet world and his role in shaping the Romantic period of dance.

Review Questions

• How did August Bournonville's training influence his approach to choreography and style in ballet?
  • August Bournonville's training under prominent ballet masters exposed him to various techniques and styles that he would later adapt and innovate. His experiences helped him develop a unique approach to choreography that prioritized natural movement, expressiveness, and character development. This blend of influences led to the establishment of the Bournonville style, which became integral to Romantic ballet and set it apart from other styles of the time.
• Discuss the significance of 'La Sylphide' in relation to Bournonville's contributions to Romantic ballet.
  • 'La Sylphide' is one of August Bournonville's most famous ballets, representing a pivotal moment in Romantic ballet history. The ballet showcases the ethereal qualities typical of this style, with its themes of love, longing, and supernatural elements. Through 'La Sylphide,' Bournonville introduced innovative choreography that captured emotion and character through dance, establishing a template for future works in the genre and solidifying his influence as a key figure in ballet.
• Evaluate how Bournonville's teaching methods at the Royal Danish Ballet contributed to the evolution of ballet during his time.
  • Bournonville's teaching methods at the Royal Danish Ballet emphasized fluidity in movement, character expression, and musicality, which marked a departure from more rigid classical techniques. By focusing on these elements, he nurtured dancers who could convey stories and emotions through their performances effectively. This approach not only transformed training practices but also influenced how future generations of dancers would interpret roles on stage, ultimately contributing to the evolution of ballet as an expressive art form during the 19th century.

Related terms

Romantic Ballet: A style of ballet that emerged in the early 19th century, characterized by its emphasis on emotion, individual expression, and the supernatural, often incorporating elements like ethereal characters and fantastical themes.

Ballet d'Action: A form of ballet that emphasizes narrative and character through dance movements, allowing the choreography to convey emotions and tell a story without relying heavily on spoken words.

Royal Danish Ballet: One of the oldest ballet companies in the world, established in Denmark, which became closely associated with Bournonville's choreographic works and training methods.