Tap dancing is a dynamic and expressive art form that combines rhythm, precision, and creativity. Whether you're a beginner looking to refine your skills or an intermediate dancer aiming to take your tap game to the next level, this blog post is for you. We'll dive into some intermediate drills and tips that will help you elevate your tap skills and achieve success on the dance floor.
1. Mastering the Flap
The flap is a fundamental tap step that serves as the building block for many more complex moves. To master the flap, start by standing with your feet hip-width apart. Shift your weight onto your right foot and lift your left foot off the ground. As you lower your left foot, flick your toes outward to create a sharp, percussive sound. Practice this movement slowly at first, focusing on the clarity and precision of the sound. Once you've got the hang of it, try incorporating the flap into a simple combination, such as a flap-ball-change.
2. The Shim Sham: A Classic Routine
The Shim Sham is a classic tap routine that has been performed by tap dancers for decades. It's a great way to practice your rhythm, coordination, and musicality. The routine consists of several basic steps, including the step-touch, shuffle, and kick. Start by learning each step individually, then gradually piece them together to form the full routine. Once you've mastered the Shim Sham, you'll have a solid foundation of tap vocabulary that you can use to create your own routines.
3. Rhythmic Variations
One of the most exciting aspects of tap dancing is the ability to play with rhythm. To challenge yourself, try incorporating rhythmic variations into your steps. For example, instead of performing a simple shuffle, try adding an extra tap or pause to create a syncopated rhythm. Experiment with different combinations of sounds and see what feels natural to you. The more you practice, the more comfortable you'll become with playing with rhythm and creating your own unique sound.
4. Partner Work: Elevate Your Skills Together
Tap dancing is not just a solo art form; it's also a great way to connect with others. Partner work can help you refine your timing, coordination, and musicality. Start by practicing simple partner moves, such as the "Tandem Shuffle" or "Echo Steps." As you become more comfortable, try more complex moves that require precise timing and communication. Partner work not only enhances your tap skills but also adds a new dimension of creativity and collaboration to your dancing.
5. Incorporate Musicality
Tap dancing is all about expressing the music through your feet. To elevate your skills, focus on incorporating musicality into your dancing. Listen to different genres of music and experiment with how you can interpret the rhythm and melody through your taps. Pay attention to the accents, dynamics, and phrasing of the music, and let them guide your movements. The more you practice, the more naturally musicality will become a part of your tap dancing.
6. Stay Consistent and Patient
Like any skill, tap dancing requires consistent practice and patience. Set aside time each day to practice your steps, combinations, and routines. Don't be discouraged if progress seems slow; every small improvement is a step in the right direction. Remember that the journey to becoming a skilled tap dancer is just as important as the destination. Enjoy the process and celebrate your progress along the way.
By incorporating these intermediate drills and tips into your tap practice, you'll be well on your way to elevating your skills and achieving success in your tap dancing journey. Keep pushing yourself, stay curious, and most importantly, have fun!
