How to Sign up for Tap Lessons

Everyone recognizes the sound of tap dancing, thanks to tap's long run on the American stage and screen. Tap dance was popularized in minstrel shows of the 1800s and, later, in Harlem jazz clubs and Hollywood movies. Tap's boundaries have since expanded, producing dance star Gregory Hines and the Broadway musical "Tap Dance Kid." Sign up for class and step into this American dance that showcases the fanciest of footwork.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Tap shoes

1. Decide how far you want tap lessons to take you. Will you shuffle off to Buffalo or New York City? Will you be happy to dance in your hometown studio or sign on with a local theater production instead?

2. Get an idea of what you need to learn. Watch a beginner's video, such as "Tap Dance Made Easy" at Amazon so you'll have a basis for comparing instructional style.

3. Locate a professional tap teacher. Try calling a local dance studio or college arts program. Find national links to tap resources on an online support website such as Tapdance.org (see Resources below).

4. Know the sign of a good instructor. Watch a class and see how the teacher interacts with students. If she or he can articulate theory and demonstrate it clearly, you've got a winner.

5. Sign up for lessons with a qualified instructor. Make sure the class atmosphere is comfortable for your learning level. Your teacher will let you know what to wear to class or where to buy the right shoes.

6. Practice ball changes until they're second nature with a tap dance CD such as "Swingin Tapping & Jammin" at Amazon (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• Tap dance evolved from Irish step, English clog and traditional African dance.
• The percussive effect of shoe striking floor is integral to tap.
• Workout? You bet. The necessary aerial hops and kicks result in a lot of calories burned.
• National Tap Dance Day is May 25th.
• Dance lessons can be expensive. Set goals or watch your dance dollars get up and walk away.
• Tap dance has a high impact on bones and joints. Start taking your glucosamine if you have big tap ambitions.
• Like most theatrical dance, tap is strenuous and requires a warm-up period in order to avoid muscle and tendon pulls.

Resources

• Links for shoes, news and steps at Tapdance.org
• Basic steps for beginners on DVD
• Great practice CD