What are the five positions of the feet in Cecchetti notation and how are they used in Grade 4 barre work?

What are the five positions of the feet in Cecchetti notation and how are they used in Grade 4 barre work?

• A. The five positions are 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th; used only in center work.
• B. The five positions are 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th (extended), 5th (crossed). In Grade 4 barre, exercises are practiced in all positions, with tendus and dégagés and rond de jambe executed in each, maintaining turnout and correct alignment.
• C. The five positions are 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th (extended), 5th (Crossed). They are used in Grade 4 barre with exercises in all positions, but only in front of the mirror.
• D. The five positions are 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th; the fifth is always crossed.

Answer: (B)

In Cecchetti notation, the five feet positions are 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th extended, and 5th crossed. In Grade 4 barre, you work in all five positions for every exercise. Tendus, dégagés, and rond de jambe are done from each position, which helps you build consistent turnout, precise alignment, and control no matter where the feet are placed. The distinction between 4th extended and 5th crossed matters because 4th extended creates a longer line with the feet apart, while 5th crossed brings the front foot directly in front of the back foot for a tight, stacked position. Practicing all five positions in barre also trains you to move smoothly between bases of support with correct weight placement, preparing you for center work and more complex combinations later.