As an intermediate tap dancer, you may be looking to expand your skills and explore new styles of tap dance. There are many different tap dance styles to choose from, each with its own unique techniques and rhythms. In this guide, we'll explore some of the most popular tap dance styles and offer tips for incorporating them into your own dance routine.
1. Classical Tap
Classical tap is the foundation of all tap dance styles. It emphasizes clean, precise footwork and a strong sense of rhythm. To master classical tap, focus on perfecting basic steps like the shuffle, ball change, and brush. Pay close attention to your timing and musicality, as these are key elements of classical tap.
2. Rhythm Tap
Rhythm tap is a style that emerged in the 1930s and 1940s, characterized by its emphasis on complex rhythms and syncopation. To incorporate rhythm tap into your routine, experiment with different time signatures and play with the idea of syncopation. Listen to recordings of rhythm tap masters like Savion Glover and Jimmy Slyde for inspiration.
3. Hoofing
Hoofin' is a high-energy style of tap dance that emphasizes acrobatics and athleticism. To master hoofing, you'll need to build up your strength and endurance. Practice jumps, turns, and flips, and work on developing your speed and agility. Watch videos of famous hoofers like the Nicholas Brothers and the Berry Brothers for inspiration.
4. Jazz Tap
Jazz tap is a style that combines elements of tap dance with jazz music. It's characterized by its improvisational nature and emphasis on musicality. To incorporate jazz tap into your routine, focus on developing your sense of musicality and your ability to improvise. Listen to jazz music and experiment with different rhythms and syncopation.
5. Contemporary Tap
Contemporary tap is a style that emerged in the late 20th century, characterized by its emphasis on storytelling and emotional expression. To incorporate contemporary tap into your routine, focus on developing your ability to convey emotion through your movements. Experiment with different musical styles and work on developing your own unique voice as a tap dancer.
Remember, the key to mastering any tap dance style is practice, practice, practice. Start by breaking down the basic steps and rhythms of each style, and then gradually build up to more complex combinations. Don't be afraid to experiment and try new things, and most importantly, have fun with it!
