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An instrumental interlude or piece performed between acts of a ballet. Example in ballet: The entr'acte music in 'Coppélia' between Acts 1 and 2.

A rapid, energetic dance originating from Italy, often characterized by a 6/8 time signature. Example in ballet: The 'Tarantella' from 'La Boutique fantasque' by Rossini-Respighi.

A technique where string instruments are plucked with the fingers. Example in ballet: The 'Pizzicato' movement from Delibes’ ballet 'Sylvia'.

A direction in music indicating a lively and brisk tempo. Example in ballet: The final movement of Balanchine's 'Symphony in C', which is set to the vivace movement of Bizet's 'Symphony No. 1 in C Major'.

A term used to describe fast, lively movements. Example in ballet: The Grand Allegro at the end of a classical ballet class, or in variations such as those from 'The Sleeping Beauty'.

A dance in triple time with a strong accent on the first beat. Example in ballet: The famous waltz sequence in 'The Sleeping Beauty', Act I, by Tchaikovsky.

An orchestral introduction to a ballet, played before the curtain rises. Example in ballet: The overture of 'Giselle' sets the mood for the ballet before the dancing begins.

A short dance within a ballet that showcases the dancers' technical skill without advancing the plot. Example in ballet: The series of character dances in the second act of 'The Nutcracker'.

A musical composition that is inspired by, or evocative of, the night. Example in ballet: 'Nocturne' from 'Les Sylphides', composed by Chopin.

A slow, graceful section often used in pas de deux to emphasize control and expression. Example in ballet: The Adagio from Tchaikovsky's 'Swan Lake'.

A dance for two, typically a male and female dancer, which is a central part of classical ballets. Example in ballet: The Grand Pas de Deux from 'The Nutcracker'.

A playful, light, or humorous movement, typically the third movement in a symphony. Example in ballet: The scherzo from 'A Midsummer Night's Dream' by Mendelssohn, used in some ballet interpretations.

The text that provides the storyline for a ballet. Example in ballet: The story of 'The Firebird' by Stravinsky is conveyed through its libretto.

A whipping movement of the leg which can also involve turns. Often found in virtuoso ballet solos. Example in ballet: The 32 fouetté turns in the Black Swan solo from 'Swan Lake'.

The final bow or curtsy at the end of a ballet class or performance, an expression of thanks. Example in ballet: The reverence performed by the entire cast at the end of 'Giselle'.

The final section of a ballet pas de deux, where both dancers perform virtuosic movements. Example in ballet: The Black Swan Pas de Deux coda from 'Swan Lake'.

A solo dance in a ballet, showcasing a dancer's technical skill and artistry. Example in ballet: Kitri's variation in 'Don Quixote'.

The ensemble of dancers who perform together as a group. Example in ballet: The Corps de Ballet creating the shapes of the forest in 'Giselle'.

A slow walk in which the dancer turns around on one leg while the other is extended, often assisted by a partner. Example in ballet: Promenade sequences in Balanchine's 'Theme and Variations'.