Trattato teorico-prattico di ballo
By: di Gennaro Magri ...
Publisher: V. Orsino
Published: 1779
Place of publication: Napoli
Language: ita
Subjects: Dance -- Handbooks, manuals, etc. -- Early works to 1800.; Dance music -- History and criticism.; Dance Instruction and Technical Manuals.; Theatrical Dance.; Notation for Dance.; Music for Dance.
Genres: Handbooks, manuals, etc.; Early works to 1800.
Other titles: Trattato di ballo teorico-prattico
Description: This manual represents one of the most important sources on dance technique for the second half of the eighteenth century and is a critical link between Baroque dance and early romantic ballet. Part one is divided into sixty sections describing various aspects of dance beginning with a statement on the utility of dance, and feet positions. The manual continues with descriptions of many steps, for example, four types of battemens, nine types of pas de bourrée, balloté, fouetté, and twenty-three types of cabriole. Also included is extensive information on late eighteenth-century grotesque style, especially important for the study of Italian pantomime. Part two discusses the responsibilities of a dancing master and manner of performing the minuet. The manual concludes with instructions for thirty-nine contradanze (contredanses), including one dance that is arranged for thirty-two performers.
Notes: Available also through the Library of Congress Web site as facsimile page images.
The engraved plates consist of diagrammed dances, most with accompanying dance music, which was composed by Magri, De Dominicis, Di Gennaro, Giuliano, A. Montoro, F. Piombanti, G. Rava, Sangro di S. Severo, and Scotti.