Tap dance is a dynamic and expressive form of dance that has been popular for over a century. It involves the use of specially designed shoes with metal plates on the heel and toe, which create rhythmic sounds when the dancer strikes the ground. In this blog post, we will explore some intermediate tap dance techniques that can help you take your skills to the next level.
1. Heel-toe tap
The heel-toe tap is a basic tap dance step that involves tapping the ground first with the heel and then with the toe. To do this step, start with your feet together and your weight evenly distributed. Then, tap down on your right heel, followed by your right toe. Repeat this pattern with your left foot, tapping down on your left heel and then your left toe. Practice this step slowly at first, and then gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable.
2. Ball-change
The ball-change is a smooth and graceful step that involves shifting your weight from one foot to the other. To do this step, start with your feet together and your weight on your right foot. Then, brush your left foot across the floor to the right, landing on the ball of your foot. At the same time, transfer your weight to your left foot and brush your right foot to the left, landing on the ball of your foot. Continue this pattern, alternating between your feet. This step is often used to transition between other steps in a tap dance routine.
3. Shuffle-off-to-Buffalo
The shuffle-off-to-Buffalo is a classic tap dance step that involves a series of quick, light steps. To do this step, start with your feet together and your weight on your right foot. Then, brush your left foot forward, landing on the ball of your foot. Next, brush your right foot forward, landing next to your left foot. Finally, shuffle your feet back to the starting position, landing first on the ball of your left foot and then on the ball of your right foot. This step is often used to add flair and energy to a tap dance routine.
4. Time steps
Time steps are a group of tap dance steps that involve a series of quick, syncopated beats. There are many different variations of time steps, but they all involve a similar basic pattern of steps. To do a basic time step, start with your feet together and your weight on your right foot. Then, tap your left foot forward, followed by your right foot. Next, tap your left foot to the left, followed by your right foot. Finally, tap your left foot back to the starting position, followed by your right foot. Practice this step slowly at first, and then gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable.
These are just a few examples of intermediate tap dance techniques that can help you improve your skills and take your tap dancing to the next level. Remember to always practice with proper technique and to warm up and cool down properly to prevent injury. With dedication and practice, you can unlock the secrets of tap dance and become a skilled and expressive dancer.
