So you've mastered the basics of tap—your shuffles are crisp, your flaps have flair, and you no longer panic when someone says "time step." Congratulations! Now comes the exciting (and occasionally frustrating) journey to intermediate level. Here's how to bridge that gap without losing your rhythm.
1. Build Your Vocabulary Like a Lexicon
Intermediate tap isn't about doing more steps—it's about doing steps better. Focus on:
- 5 variations each of shuffles, flaps, and time steps (try changing weight distribution or adding syncopation)
- Unexpected transitions between moves (what happens if you go from a maxi ford into a cramp roll?)
- Musicality drills—practice the same step to songs with 120bpm, 150bpm, and 80bpm
2. The 80/20 Rule of Practice
Spend 80% of your time on:
- Slow-motion mastery—perform wings at 50% speed to perfect brush placement
- Isolation exercises—ankle rotations while maintaining toe taps
- Sound quality—record yourself to analyze if your heel drops sound identical on both feet
The remaining 20%? That's for showing off and having fun—essential for motivation.
3. Upgrade Your Gear Strategically
Your first taps served you well, but intermediate progress demands:
- Split-sole shoes for better articulation (the Bloch Jason Samuels model remains a favorite)
- Teletone screws for dynamic sound control
- Shock-absorbing insoles—your knees will thank you during those 3-hour practice sessions
4. Train Like a Musician
Top tap educators now recommend:
- Ear training apps to distinguish between swung and straight eighth notes
- Drum rudiment exercises—paradiddles translate surprisingly well to footwork
- Silent practice on yoga mats to strengthen muscle memory without auditory feedback
5. The Intermediate Mindset Shift
This is where most tappers plateau. Break through by:
- Tracking consistency over complexity—can you hit clean pullbacks 8/10 times?
- Studying vintage clips frame-by-frame (the Nicholas Brothers' heel-toe weight shifts are masterclasses)
- Embracing "productive messiness"—sometimes the best rhythms come from missed steps
Remember: Intermediate tap isn't a destination—it's where you finally have enough tools to start really playing. The steps you're struggling with now will soon feel like home, making room for new challenges. Now go make some noise!
