Tap dance, a rhythmic marvel that has captivated audiences for generations, is more than just a form of entertainment—it's a dynamic art that continues to evolve. For those who have mastered the basics and are ready to take their skills to the next level, the journey from intermediate to advanced tap dance is both exhilarating and challenging. Let's explore the key steps and techniques that will elevate your tap game and help you become a true virtuoso.
1. Mastering Complex Rhythms
At the intermediate level, dancers often focus on clean execution and basic rhythm patterns. However, to move into the advanced realm, you must delve deeper into complex rhythms. This involves understanding syncopation, polyrhythms, and even microtiming. Practice with metronomes set at varying speeds and experiment with different subdivisions (e.g., eighth notes, sixteenth notes) to build your rhythmic vocabulary.
2. Expanding Your Repertoire of Steps
Advanced tap dancers are known for their versatility and ability to execute a wide range of steps with precision. Beyond the standard shuffle, flap, and brush steps, explore more intricate moves like the Buffalo, Shim Sham, and Maxi Ford. Each of these steps requires a higher level of control and musicality, pushing your technical skills to new heights.
3. Incorporating Musicality
Musicality is the soul of tap dance. Advanced dancers don't just tap to the beat; they interpret the music, creating a dialogue between their feet and the soundtrack. Listen to a variety of musical genres—from jazz and blues to hip-hop and classical—and practice improvising to different styles. This will not only enhance your musicality but also make your performances more engaging and dynamic.
4. Developing Choreography Skills
While many intermediate dancers focus on mastering individual steps, advanced dancers must also excel in choreography. Learn to create and perform complex routines that showcase your technical prowess and artistic vision. Study the works of legendary tap choreographers like Bob Fosse, Gregory Hines, and Savion Glover to gain inspiration and insight into the art of choreography.
5. Enhancing Performance Quality
Performance quality is what sets advanced tap dancers apart. This includes not only technical skill but also stage presence, storytelling, and emotional expression. Practice performing in front of an audience, whether it's a small group of friends or a larger crowd. Focus on connecting with your audience and conveying the story or emotion behind your dance.
6. Embracing Improvisation
Improvisation is a hallmark of advanced tap dance. It allows dancers to think on their feet, react to the music in real-time, and showcase their creativity. Engage in improvisation exercises, such as call-and-response with other dancers or solo jam sessions. This will help you develop a spontaneous and adaptive style that can captivate any audience.
7. Strengthening Your Body
Tap dance is physically demanding, and advanced dancers must have strong, flexible bodies to execute complex steps with ease. Incorporate strength training, flexibility exercises, and cardiovascular workouts into your routine. Focus on building core strength, which is crucial for balance and control in tap dance.
8. Networking and Collaboration
The tap dance community is vibrant and supportive. Advanced dancers often collaborate with others, attend workshops, and participate in competitions. Networking with fellow dancers and mentors can provide valuable learning opportunities and help you stay inspired and motivated.
In conclusion, the journey from intermediate to advanced tap dance is a thrilling adventure that requires dedication, creativity, and a passion for the art form. By mastering complex rhythms, expanding your step repertoire, incorporating musicality, developing choreography skills, enhancing performance quality, embracing improvisation, strengthening your body, and networking with others, you'll be well on your way to becoming a true tap dance virtuoso. So, lace up your shoes, hit the floor, and let the rhythm take you to new heights!
