Classical variation guide
The Sylph · Variation 2
Also known as The Sylph Variation 2 · La Sylphide Female Variation 2 · Sylph Variation Two · La Sylphide Variation 2
La Sylphide · Act II · Forest Scene
Female
Advanced
August Bournonville
Herman Severin Løvenskiold
About this variation
The Sylph is an elusive spirit of the air whose beauty draws James away from his ordinary life. Presented here as Variation 2, this solo calls for the lightness and delicate musical phrasing of the Bournonville tradition: quick feet beneath a soft upper body, buoyant jumps, and gestures that suggest a creature always just beyond reach.
Performance quality
Airy, elusive, playful, and tender
Training focus
Coordinate quick footwork with gentle head positions and rounded port de bras. Practice quiet pointe transitions and elastic landings, then connect the phrases without losing the lifted torso or the impression of effortless flight.
Key elements
Petit allegro · Quick footwork · Grand jumps · Character acting