Unit 13 and 14 Stylistic Features of Tap Dance

Tap Development

Tap dancing has some really unique stylistic features.

1. Rhythm and Timing: Tap dancing is all about creating intricate rhythms with your feet. Timing is crucial, and dancers often sync their steps to music or even create their own beats.

 

2. Syncopation: This involves placing emphasis on unexpected beats, which adds a lot of flair and complexity to the dance.

3. Improvisation: Tap dancers often improvise, creating spontaneous rhythms and steps. This makes each performance unique.

4. Footwork: The variety of steps, like shuffles, springs, cramp rolls and paradiddles, give tap its distinctive sound and style.

5. Upper Body Movement: While the focus is on the feet, the upper body also plays a role. Dancers use their arms and torso to add expression and style to their performance.

6. Sound: The metal taps on the shoes create a percussive sound, turning the dancer into both a performer and a musician. 

7. Posture & Alignment: Good posture is fundamental in tap dancing as it allows for proper body alignment, balance, and control. Proper alignment in tap dancing is essential for executing steps accurately and efficiently.

Teacher Demonstrating Stylistic Features

I think I was most successful in the upper body movements as I was showing a lot of expression while I was trying to control what my feet were doing. I always maintained good posture which was very crucial. It helps with balance and makes my movements look more polished. Once again while my feet were busy, my arms added flair and expression. They can move in sync with my steps or in contrast to create a dynamic looks. My torso helped convey the style and emotion of the dance. Slight bends, twists, and leans can add a lot of character to the performance. Not forgetting my head, where I look and how I move my head can add emphasis to certain steps and rhythms. Lastly, coordination is all about the upper body with footwork. This can take some practice, but it really elevates the performance. 

I think I could develop my ability in rhythm and timing as rhythm and timing are super important in tap dancing because they are the foundation of the style. Tap dancing essentially means we are making music with our feet. The rhythms and timings basically create a drumbeat, adding a musical layer to the performance. When dancing with others, precise timing ensures hat everyone stays in sync, creating a cohesive and impressive routine. Good rhythm and timing also allows dancers to express different moods and styles. Syncopation and varied tempos can convey excitement, tension, or relaxation. Many tap steps, like the cramp roll or paradiddle, require exact timing to execute correctly. This precision makes the dance look sharp and professional. One target I would set for the future to help improve my rhythm and timing is making sure I pay close attention to the music, making sure every tap and move is right on beat so it sounds very fluent and rhythmic.