How to Do a Riffle and Scuffle Combination in Tap Dancing

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By Cindi Pearce
eHow Contributing Writer

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Tap Shoes

The riffle and scuffle combination step in tap dancing requires close footwork while moving forward. A riffle is a two-count riff (brush ball, scuff heel) with a spank (back brush). A scuffle is a contraction of a scuff and the back brush (or spank) of a shuffle. Follow the instructions below to put the riffle and scuffle together to create the riffle and scuffle combination.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Tap shoes

Step 1

Note that you will do the riffle three times and then add the scuffle.
Step 2

Brush heel (scuff) to the front on your right foot and then step down on your right.
Step 3

Repeat this combination starting on the left and then on the right.
Step 4

Add the scuffle: Back brush your left foot (a spank), step on the ball of your left foot and then do a heel drop on your R.
Step 5

Begin the entire combination on your left foot. Remember, you will do three riffles and then one scuffle. This makes the riffle and scuffle combination. You will create 12 taps.
Step 6

Contain your steps, making them small, so that they’re manageable. If your steps get too expansive, they will get away from you and you won’t be able to do the intricate steps required in this combination.