Classical variation guide
Chopiniana · Variation 3
Also known as Chopiniana Variation 3 · Les Sylphides Variation 3 · Les Sylphides · Variation 3
Les Sylphides (Chopiniana)
Female
Intermediate
Mikhail Fokine
Frédéric Chopin
About this variation
A lyrical sylph solo from Fokine’s plotless Chopiniana, known internationally as Les Sylphides. Variation 3 depends on softness, musical breath, and continuous Romantic phrasing, with the dancer appearing light and suspended rather than displaying overt virtuosity.
Performance quality
Ethereal, tender, musical, weightless, and Romantic
Training focus
Develop quiet pointe transitions, sustained balances and arabesque lines, coordinated épaulement, and port de bras that continues through every step. Shape the choreography through Chopin’s phrasing rather than treating positions as separate poses.
Key elements
Balances · Arabesque control · Sustained adagio · Quick footwork