Which component of Cecchetti technique is correctly described as a port de bras?

• A. To shape the upper body, support balance, coordinate with leg movement, and create musical phrasing.
• B. To perform leaps.
• C. To only hold the arms still.
• D. To strengthen the calves.

Answer: (A)

Port de bras is about how the arms and upper body are carried and moved to accompany the leg work in Cecchetti. It shapes the upper body, supports balance, coordinates with leg movement, and helps create musical phrasing, so the overall line feels integrated and fluid rather than separate from the feet. Leaps are a jump element and aren’t defined by port de bras; holding the arms still contradicts the idea of expressive arm work; strengthening the calves targets the lower legs, not arm carriage. So the description that emphasizes shaping, balance, coordination with the legs, and musical phrasing best captures port de bras.