Welcome back, tap enthusiasts! Whether you've been dancing for a few months or a few years, there's always room to grow and refine your skills. Today, we're diving into the world of intermediate tap dance, where the basics are solid, and the next level of complexity awaits. Let's unlock those advanced moves and elevate your tap game!
1. Mastering the Flap
The flap is a quintessential tap move that every intermediate dancer should have in their arsenal. It's a quick, sharp movement where the ball of your foot strikes the floor, followed by a quick transfer of weight. To master the flap:
- Foot Position: Start with your feet hip-width apart, weight on your heels.
- Action: Shift your weight to the ball of your foot, then quickly transfer it back to your heel.
- Timing: Practice with a metronome to ensure the movement is crisp and precise.
2. The Shim Sham: A Tap Classic
The Shim Sham is a tap dance routine that's been around for decades and is a rite of passage for any serious tapper. It combines various tap steps into a cohesive, rhythmic sequence. Here’s a breakdown of the key steps:
- Shim Sham: A series of shuffles, kicks, and flaps that flow seamlessly together.
- Tack Annie: A quick, heel-toe movement that adds a dynamic flair to the routine.
- Stomp and Shimmy: A powerful stomp followed by a quick shimmy to add energy and flair.
Practice each section separately until you feel comfortable, then work on connecting them smoothly.
3. Syncopation and Musicality
As you advance in tap, understanding syncopation and musicality becomes crucial. Syncopation involves playing with rhythm by emphasizing beats that are "off the beat." This can add a unique flavor to your dancing. Here’s how to incorporate syncopation:
- Listen: Pay close attention to the music and identify the off-beats.
- Practice: Start with simple syncopated patterns, like tapping on the "ands" of the beat (e.g., 1-and-2-and).
- Improvise: Once comfortable, try improvising with syncopated rhythms to add spontaneity to your routines.
4. Partner Work and Choreography
Intermediate tap dancers often start exploring partner work and choreography. This not only enhances your technical skills but also improves your ability to dance with others. Here are some tips:
- Communication: Establish clear signals and cues with your partner to ensure smooth transitions.
- Timing: Practice with a metronome or a steady beat to maintain synchronized movements.
- Creativity: Experiment with different choreography styles and themes to keep your routines fresh and exciting.
5. Conditioning and Stretching
As your tap skills advance, so does the demand on your body. Regular conditioning and stretching are essential to prevent injury and maintain flexibility. Focus on:
- Ankle Strength: Incorporate exercises like calf raises and ankle circles to build strength.
- Flexibility: Stretch your calves, hamstrings, and hip flexors to ensure you can execute moves with ease.
- Core Stability: A strong core helps maintain balance and control during complex routines.
Remember, the journey to becoming an advanced tap dancer is a marathon, not a sprint. Embrace the process, enjoy the challenges, and celebrate every small victory along the way. Happy tapping!
