From Classics to Contemporary: Music That Makes Tap Shine

Tap dance, a vibrant and rhythmic art form, has always been deeply intertwined with music. From the early days of ragtime and jazz to the modern beats of hip-hop and electronic music, the relationship between tap and music has evolved, yet remained inseparable. In this blog, we’ll explore how different musical genres have influenced and elevated tap dance, creating a dynamic and ever-evolving partnership.

The Classics: Ragtime and Jazz

Tap dance was born in the early 20th century, during the heyday of ragtime and jazz. These genres provided the perfect backdrop for tap, with their syncopated rhythms and improvisational nature. Legends like Bill "Bojangles" Robinson and Fred Astaire thrived in this era, using the music to create intricate tap routines that were as much about the sound as the movement.

Ragtime, with its distinctive "oom-pah" basslines and lively melodies, allowed tap dancers to showcase their ability to match the music's complexity. Jazz, on the other hand, with its improvisational spirit, gave dancers the freedom to explore and create on the spot, making every performance unique.

The Mid-Century Boom: Big Band and Broadway

As tap dance moved into the mid-20th century, it found a new home in the world of big band music and Broadway. The orchestral arrangements of big band provided a rich, layered soundscape that tap dancers could respond to with precision and flair. Shows like "42nd Street" and "Anything Goes" featured tap numbers that became iconic, blending dance and music into a seamless spectacle.

Broadway tapped into the narrative potential of dance, using music to tell stories and evoke emotions. Tap numbers became not just performances, but integral parts of the plot, adding depth and excitement to the shows.

The Modern Era: Hip-Hop and Beyond

In recent decades, tap dance has continued to evolve, finding new musical partners in hip-hop, electronic, and even pop music. The syncopated beats and urban rhythms of hip-hop have provided a fresh challenge for tap dancers, encouraging them to push the boundaries of their art form.

Artists like Savion Glover have been at the forefront of this movement, blending traditional tap with contemporary music to create a new, hybrid style that speaks to modern audiences. The use of electronic music, with its complex beats and layers, has also opened up new possibilities for tap, allowing dancers to explore a wider range of sounds and rhythms.

The Future of Tap and Music

As we look to the future, it's clear that the relationship between tap dance and music will continue to evolve. With the rise of new genres and technologies, tap dancers have endless opportunities to innovate and create. Whether it's through collaborations with contemporary musicians or the exploration of new sounds, tap dance will remain a dynamic and vibrant art form, forever intertwined with the music that inspires it.

So, the next time you watch a tap performance, take a moment to appreciate the music that makes it shine. From the classics to the contemporary, it's the perfect partnership that keeps tap dance alive and thriving.