Tap dance

Definition

Tap dance is a form of dance characterized by the sound of metal plates attached to the bottom of shoes, which creates rhythmic patterns and musical sounds through tapping. This dance style has deep roots in African American culture, combining elements of African rhythms, European folk dance, and improvisation, making it a significant cultural expression that reflects the historical influences and contributions of African dance traditions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Tap dance originated in the 19th century from a blend of African rhythms and Irish jigs, showcasing its multicultural influences.
2. The style became popular in minstrel shows and vaudeville performances, where dancers would entertain audiences with their rhythmic skills.
3. Notable tap dancers like Bill 'Bojangles' Robinson and Gregory Hines have elevated the art form, showcasing its expressiveness and technical precision.
4. Tap dance has evolved over the years, incorporating elements from jazz and hip-hop, leading to new styles such as rhythm tap and funk tap.
5. Tap dancing is often performed both solo and in groups, emphasizing improvisation and interaction among dancers, making it a lively and engaging performance art.

Review Questions

• How did African dance influences contribute to the development of tap dance as a unique form?
  • African dance influences played a crucial role in shaping tap dance through their emphasis on rhythm, improvisation, and community engagement. The incorporation of African rhythms introduced complex footwork and syncopated beats that became foundational elements of tap. This connection highlights how tap dance serves as a cultural bridge that honors its African roots while evolving into a distinct American art form.
• Discuss the significance of tap dance in American performance culture and its impact on broader artistic expressions.
  • Tap dance holds significant importance in American performance culture as it embodies a fusion of diverse cultural elements. It paved the way for various artistic expressions by influencing music genres like jazz and funk, creating collaborative performances that combine dance with live music. Tap's evolution has also led to its inclusion in theater and film, showcasing its versatility and enhancing its popularity across different audiences.
• Evaluate the ways in which tap dance reflects the historical experiences of African Americans and contributes to contemporary cultural dialogues.
  • Tap dance reflects the historical experiences of African Americans by serving as a form of resistance and expression against social injustices faced throughout history. This dance form not only showcases creativity but also communicates cultural stories through rhythm and movement. In contemporary settings, tap continues to engage with current social issues, allowing dancers to address themes like identity, community, and heritage while fostering cross-cultural understanding.

Related terms

Rhythm: A fundamental element of music and dance that refers to the pattern of sounds and silences in time, which is essential in creating the beats in tap dance.

Clogging: A percussive dance form that originated in the Appalachian region, similar to tap but often performed with more stomping and less intricate footwork.

Funk: A genre of music that incorporates strong rhythmic patterns and syncopation, often influencing the styles and techniques seen in tap dance performances.