Tap

Tap Dance is an exciting, percussive, rhythmical dance form. The dancer uses their feet to strike the floor, beating out a melody, with tap shoes which have small metal plates on the toe and heel to give the distinctive sound.

Tap dance is a theatrical art form often seen on screen and stage in musicals. Influenced by African rhythms, Irish stepping, and English clogging, it developed in the late 19th century and by the early 1900s was firmly established in the vaudeville of America and in the music halls of Britain. Its popularity spread even more widely in the 1930s when it became a significant component of musical films.

Students will love the sound of their noisy feet, quickly learn to listen carefully to the rhythm and beat of the music. They develop their musicality, fast footwork and creativity. A wide variety of music styles are used; from jazz to pop, to musical theatre and beyond. 

The Syllabus

Beginner Levels (Pre-Primary, Primary for age 5+)
Graded and Higher Levels (Grade 1-6 for age 7+)
Vocational Levels (Intermediate – Advanced 2 for age 12+)

Suitable for boys and girls age 5 and above.

International Examination Board

Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD), United Kingdom – Established in 1904, the ISTD is a registered educational charity and membership association, and is one of the world’s leading dance examination boards with 12 faculties from ballet, modern, ballroom, dance sport and social dance. ISTD mission is to educate the public in the art of dancing in all its forms, to promote the knowledge of dance, to provide up-to-date techniques, and to maintain and improve teaching standards across the globe. The ISTD is always moving with the times to keep pace with the latest developments in dance. ISTD has more than 6000 members in over 59 countries throughout the world and conduct over 120,000 examinations and 20,000 hours Continuing Professional Development each year.

The Commonwealth Society of Teachers of Dancing (CSTD) is one of the great International Dance Societies proudly serving Dance for over 80 years providing examinations in all major dance disciplines throughout Australia & the Asian Pacific region. The Society had its beginnings in 1933 with the formation of the National Examination System and the Victorian Society of Dancing. Established in 1931 and 1933 respectively, the two organisations were founded to establish Examination Standards and to raise the standard of dance in Australia. The later amalgamation of the two societies into the Commonwealth Society of Teachers of Dancing consolidated the work of the two organisations into one democratic society which today occupies a unique position amongst the dance societies of the world, catering for all major forms of dance. Examinations are held throughout Australia and the Asian Pacific Region in the various syllabi.

Unlocking rhythm with tap dance classes in Singapore for beginner dancers

If you have ever been entranced by the sounds of tap shoes striking the floor, or captivated by the rhythm and bold style of a tap dance performance, this article is for you world of tap dance, its artistry, and the opportunities to learn and progress at your own pace and comfort. In Singapore, tap dance classes are a popular choice for those seeking a unique and playful style of dance education. This article covers fundamental points about tap dance classes for beginner dancers in Singapore, letting you step into a vibrant dance community with ease and confidence.

Why should you take up tap dance ?

Starting Your Tap Dance Journey at Any Age

Among the many dance arts Singapore offers, tap dance is truly ageless. Whether you are a beginner, an advancing dancer, or someone revisiting a passion from years past, it’s never too late to start. Tap classes, embrace all ages from as young as 5 years old to adult, offering each individual the chance to explore their rhythm and create magic with their tap shoes.

Rhythm and Coordination

Tap dance is all about creating rhythmic patterns with your feet. It enhances your sense of timing, coordination, and the ability to sync movement with music.

Cardiovascular Exercise

Tap dancing is a cardiovascular workout that can help improve your  stamina and heart health. It’s a fun way to stay active.

The Comfort and Freedom of Dance

Dance benefits both mind and body, regardless of age. Children as young as 5 year old and adults participating in dance classes can experience a newfound freedom and excitement, away from the usual daily routine. In our studio, you will find a welcoming atmosphere that supports your dance journey, promoting balance, coordination, and strengthening your core, all while you learn this vibrant style of dance.

Grasping the Basics with Professional Teachers

Our tap dance classes are guided by professional instructors. They are dedicated to help dancers grasp the steps, understand the rhythm, and get comfortable with tap shoes. The level in tap is progressive and classes are offered for beginners to advanced dancers, ensuring a well-structured approach to learning tap dance.

What Will I Learn in a Tap Dance Class?

Understanding the Art of Tap Dance

In tap dance classes, you will learn more than just a sequence of steps. You will discover the art of tap dance and its technique, how each step creates a different sound, and how the collective melody of metal "tap" shoes creates a unique rhythm. The lessons teach you to listen to the sounds, control your steps, and follow the beat, thus enhancing your dance education.

Introduction to Style and Steps in Tap Dance

Taking tap dance classes at our school, you will be introduced to the style and steps that form the basis of this intricate dance form. Beginning with simple steps, the intricacy increases as you advance, adding complexity and sophistication to your routine. The style of tap dance includes elements of Jazz and Theatre, which you will explore throughout your learning journey.

Discovering the Rhythm with Tap Shoes

Tapping is all about rhythm, beats, and musicality. The sounds of tap shoes striking the floor create the rhythm, making tap dance a visual and audible spectacle. Learning to control these sounds while dancing is an integral part of tap dance classes. Your shoes essentially become your musical instrument which you learn to play with your feet.

Vocational training and Professional Tap

Vocational tap classes are ideal for students who want to pursue tap professionally. We offer high-quality dance training and prepare students for examinations, competitions, and auditions for dance companies. Students who want a career as a professional dancer must have a solid foundation in the fundamentals.

HOW IS A TAP DANCE CLASS STRUCTURED?

A typical tap dance class follows a structured format to help  students learn and improve their tap dancing skills. Here’s an  overview of how a tap class is typically structured: 

    • Warm-Up: The class usually begins with a warm-up session. This is essential to prepare the body for dancing, prevent injuries, and increase flexibility. The warm-up often  includes stretches and light cardiovascular exercises to get the  heart rate up. 
    • Fundamental Steps: In the next part of the class, students work on fundamental tap dance steps. These are the building blocks of tap dancing and include basic moves like shuffles,  flaps, brushes, and cramp rolls. Instructors pay close attention  to proper technique and timing. 
    • Progressive Exercises: As the class progresses and for higher levels, students move on to more complex steps and combinations. These exercises challenge students to improve  their coordination, rhythm, and footwork. Instructors break  down the steps and provide guidance on how to execute them  effectively. 
    • Routines and Choreography: A significant portion of the class is often dedicated to learning and practicing choreographed routines. Instructors teach students entire  dance sequences, incorporating various steps and movements. These routines are an opportunity for students to  apply what they’ve learned and work on their performance  skills. 
    • Improvisation: Improvisation is a crucial part of tap dance, and many classes include sessions where students can practice creating their own rhythms and combinations. This  helps students become more creative and comfortable with  expressing themselves through tap dance.
    • Cool-Down: Like the warm-up, a cool-down session is essential to prevent injury and ease the body after an intense workout. This part of the class typically involves gentle  stretches and relaxation exercises. 

The exact structure of a tap class may vary depending on the level,  the age of the students, and the teaching style of the instructor.  However, these key elements are typically part of most tap dance  classes, ensuring a well-rounded learning experience for students.

Contact Us

Need more help? Reach out to the Elevate Dance Academie team today, we’re here to assist you.