The major methods of ballet are Vaganova, Cecchetti, the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD), Balanchine, the French school, and Bournonville, with the American Ballet Theatre (ABT) National Training Curriculum widely used in the United States. All teach the same core vocabulary of pliés, tendus, pirouettes, and jumps, but each has its own priorities: Vaganova is known for strong backs and expressive arms, Cecchetti for precise daily set exercises, RAD for a graded exam syllabus, Balanchine for speed and musicality, the French school for elegance and clean footwork, and Bournonville for light, quick jumps. Good teaching matters more than the method’s name, and many schools blend methods.
This guide compares the major methods, explains each one’s history and signature traits, shows how they differ in practice, helps you choose a school based on method, and lists common misconceptions.
Ballet methods compared
| Method | Origin | Signature traits |
|---|---|---|
| Vaganova | Russia, codified by Agrippina Vaganova | Strong, flexible back, expressive arms, powerful jumps, systematic progression |
| Cecchetti | Based on the teaching of Italian ballet master Enrico Cecchetti, formalized in England | Set exercises for each day of the week, precision, anatomical logic |
| Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) | England, founded 1920 | Graded exam syllabus used in many countries |
| Balanchine | United States, George Balanchine | Speed, musicality, extended lines, dynamic off-balance shapes |
| French school | Paris Opera Ballet School tradition | Elegance, clean footwork, refined épaulement |
| Bournonville | Denmark, August Bournonville | Light, quick jumps, lower arms, buoyant style |
| ABT National Training Curriculum | United States, American Ballet Theatre | Level-based curriculum and teacher certification drawing on several traditions |
Vaganova method
Agrippina Vaganova, a Russian dancer and teacher, developed a systematic approach to training that combined elements of the French, Italian, and Russian traditions. Her book on the basic principles of classical ballet, first published in the 1930s, helped spread the method. Vaganova training emphasizes a strong, flexible upper back, expressive port de bras, coordination of the whole body, and a carefully planned progression over many years. It is taught at the Vaganova Academy in St. Petersburg and in schools worldwide.
Cecchetti method
Enrico Cecchetti was an Italian dancer and influential teacher whose students included many famous dancers of the early 20th century. After his death, his teaching was formalized, and the Cecchetti Society was founded in London to preserve it. The method uses set exercises for each day of the week, builds strength and precision logically, and emphasizes clean lines and correct placement. It is now taught through organizations in several countries, often with an exam structure.
Royal Academy of Dance (RAD)
The Royal Academy of Dance was founded in London in 1920 to improve standards of dance teaching. It offers a graded syllabus from early childhood through advanced levels, with exams assessed by trained examiners. RAD is one of the most widely taught systems internationally, and its exams give students clear goals and external assessment. It also trains and certifies teachers.
Balanchine style
George Balanchine trained in Russia, worked with the Ballets Russes, and moved to the United States, where he co-founded the School of American Ballet and later New York City Ballet. His style emphasizes speed, musicality, attack, and extended lines, often with dynamic, off-balance positions and fast footwork. It is taught most closely at schools associated with his companies and influences many American schools.
French school
The French school traces its roots to the Paris Opera Ballet, one of the oldest ballet institutions. It is associated with elegance, refined épaulement, precise and clean footwork, and a polished, understated style. Its training at the Paris Opera Ballet School follows a long tradition of structured, demanding classes.
Bournonville method
August Bournonville was a 19th-century Danish choreographer and ballet master. His style, preserved largely by the Royal Danish Ballet, is known for light, quick jumps, intricate footwork, lower and softer arm positions, and a joyful, natural expression. Many Bournonville ballets and set classes are still performed and taught.
ABT National Training Curriculum
American Ballet Theatre developed its National Training Curriculum as a comprehensive, level-based program for training dancers from early childhood through pre-professional levels. It draws on several traditions, emphasizes healthy, anatomically sound progression, and includes teacher certification and student exams.
How the methods differ in practice
| Area | Examples of differences |
|---|---|
| Arm positions | Names and exact shapes of positions vary between methods |
| Studio directions | Corners and walls are numbered differently |
| Épaulement | Degree and style of shoulder and head placement vary |
| Class structure | Some use set exercises; others vary combinations |
| Pace | Balanchine-influenced training emphasizes speed; others build more slowly |
| Assessment | RAD and Cecchetti use graded exams; others use school-based assessment |
How to choose a school based on method
1. Consider your goals. Exam-focused students may like RAD or Cecchetti; students aiming for specific companies may prefer related schools.
2. Watch a class. Observe teaching quality, corrections, and atmosphere.
3. Ask about teacher training. Certified teachers in any method usually follow a clear progression.
4. Check consistency. Staying in one well-taught system for several years helps build solid technique.
5. Stay open. Many professional dancers train in more than one method and adapt easily.
How to recognize a method in class
Set exercises repeated on certain days. Often a sign of Cecchetti training.
Graded syllabus exercises and exam preparation. Common in RAD and other exam-based schools.
Strong emphasis on back flexibility and expressive arms. Suggests Vaganova influence.
Very fast tendus and quick, musical combinations. Often reflects Balanchine influence.
Small, fast jumps and lower arms. May indicate Bournonville training.
Common misconceptions
“One method is best.” Every recognized method has produced outstanding dancers. Teaching quality matters most.
“You can never switch methods.” Dancers often adapt to new methods at summer intensives, college programs, or companies.
“Methods are completely different.” They share the same foundations; differences are in details, style, and structure.
“Exams are required to become professional.” Exams offer structure and goals, but many professional dancers trained in schools without exam systems.
Mistakes to avoid when comparing methods
Choosing only by name. A famous method taught poorly is less useful than a well-taught program with a less familiar name.
Switching schools often. Changing methods frequently can slow technical progress.
Ignoring terminology differences. When changing schools, ask about arm positions and room numbering to adapt quickly.
Assuming speed means quality. Faster progression is not always better; safe, steady development matters for long-term health.
A note on training and health
Whatever the method, safe training depends on qualified teachers, gradual progression, appropriate pointe readiness, sprung floors, and attention to injuries. Methods and syllabi are updated over time by their organizations, so check with each school for its current curriculum and exam requirements.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best ballet method?
No single method is best. Vaganova, Cecchetti, RAD, Balanchine, French, Bournonville, and ABT curricula all produce strong dancers when taught well.
What is the difference between Vaganova and RAD?
Vaganova is a Russian method known for strong backs and expressive arms with long-term progression, while RAD is an international graded syllabus with exams.
Can I switch ballet methods?
Yes. Dancers often adapt to new methods. Expect some differences in arm positions, terminology, and room numbering.
