Tap is a fun and energetic type of dance that combines rhythm and sound with movement. It is a unique form of dance where the dancer uses their feet like percussion instruments to create beats. As a beginner, it’s important to have the right foundation, attitude and gear to hone your skills and develop your own style. Even if you have no prior dance experience, don’t worry – anyone can start learning and enjoying this fun and vibrant dance style.
Tap Shoes
As mentioned before, tap dance combines rhythm with movement and the dancer has to use their feet to create beats, that’s why the most crucial piece of equipment for a tap dancer is their tap shoes. These specialised shoes have metal plates known as taps attached to the heel and toes and these taps create this distinctive sound that characterises tap dance. The metal plates can vary in size and shape, which affects the sound they produce. When choosing comfy and responsive tap shoes in Australia or anywhere else, it’s important to consider a few key features to ensure you get the best pair for your needs.
What shoes to wear for tap? Tap shoes come in many styles, each one with its own perks. The first shoes are the Oxford Style ones that feature a low, lace-up design with a firm, flat sole and a small heel. They are highly versatile and suitable for both beginners and experienced dancers. The Mary-Jane tap shoes are known for their elegance and feminine touch. They have a strap across their instep and are secured with a buckle or snap button.
Advanced dancers favour these shoes because they are great for executing intricate footwork. The last type is the flex shoes that combine elements of flexibility and traditional tap shoe design which allies for greater flexibility and articulation of the foot.
The choice of material for your tap shoes is also an important consideration. You can choose shoes made of leather or synthetic materials, and each of these has its pros and cons. Leather ones are known for their durability and longevity and they can withstand rigorous use and maintain their shape over time, while synthetic ones are more budget-friendly making them a great choice for beginners. They are also easy to clean and maintain while the leather ones are easier to break in, so the choice ultimately is yours and how dedicated you are to this dance.
Basic Tap Steps
Mastering the basics is the first step to becoming proficient in tap dance and there are certain basic steps that every dancer should know, so here are five of those essential ones you need to learn. The first one is called the shuffle. It’s a two-sound movement that involves brushing the ball of the foot forward and backward. It can be performed at various speeds and rhythms making it a versatile step that can come in handy in many different choreographies.
The next movement is the ball change. This move involves shifting weight from one foot to the other and it’s often used to transition between steps. To do this move you need to step back onto the call of your right foot and then quickly shift your weight onto your left foot, creating a move essential in many tap dance routines.
Another important move is the maxi ford which is a combination that includes a shuffle, jump and toe tap. You need to start with a shuffle on the right foot, step onto the left foot, jump onto the right foot and tap the left toe behind the right foot.
The time step involves a series of movements that repeat over a count. Begin by hopping on your left foot then step forward with your right foot. Shuffle your left foot, step onto the ball of your right foot and finally step forward with your left foot. Last, but not least is the cramp roll, which combines toe and heel drops. To perform it step onto the ball of your right foot, then step onto the ball of your left foot. Drop the right heel, followed by the left heel. This creates a rolling effect, distinctive in tap dance.
Find a Good Teacher
Finding a good teacher is crucial to your development as a dancer. A skilled teacher can guide you through the process, correct your technique and help you progress faster. Look for a teacher with experience and relevant teaching qualifications and even ask for recommendations from other dancers to check the teacher’s reputation.
Practise Makes Perfect
To improve your skills and become proficient regular practice is essential. Dance as often as you can and go over the basic steps and other combinations regularly to build muscle memory and improve your technique. Practice with different tempos and styles of music to enhance your rhythm and timing.
Tap dance is an exciting and rewarding form of dance that combines movement with rhythm. By investing in a good pair of tap shoes from Australia or someplace else, mastering the basic steps and practising regularly you can learn and become a tap dancer quickly.
