TAP Dance
Tap Dance History and Introduction
Tap dancing is considered to be the most American of all dance forms. Yet, as with all things American, its roots stem from our forbearers and the countries from which they immigrated such as the Spanish Zapateado, the German Schuhplattler; and the clog dancing of the English, Scotch and Irish.
The two most important cultures that merged to give us the beginnings of American Tap Dancing were the Irish immigrants and the Negro slaves. The Negro, deprived of his drums turned to using his feet to beat out the rhythms of his tribal heritage and rites. Unlike the Irish clog dancer, who brought with them their rigid and stately jugs and reels.
Today, traditional and contemporary tap live side by side, wherever tap dancing exists. The two forms have very different aspirations, expectations and goals.
Tap Dance at our Dance Studio
Students learn the fundamentals of tap rhythms beginning at the age of 3 in Introduction to Tap.
The Center For Performing Arts Dance Studio & Acting School offers beginner and Intermediate Adult Tap Classes.
- Instill in students a love of the arts.
- To understand dance is something far beyond steps and routines.
- To excite and challenge student so that lessons are remembered as well accomplished.
- Pass on the joy and creative passion for the art of dance which was passed to us.
- Dance experience is a positive factor in the lives of all it touches students, teachers and audience.
Tap instructors are tested to teach by the National Council of Dance Teacher's Organization of America (NDCA), Dance Master's of America, Dance Teacher's Club of Boston, have a College Degree in Dance or have Toured in professional Dance Companies.
Tap Dance Class Attire
Proper clothing allows for freedom of the body to move in the most unrestricted way and for the trained instructor to identify proper placement corrections. Uniformed class wear ensures the confidence of all students in a safe learning environment. Well fitting, durable and quality footwear provides the dancer's feet with protection and support
.Girls Tap Dance Attire: Tap students are expected to wear their hair off their face in a bun or pony tail, black leotard, pink tights, black tap shoes (purchased at our dance studio), Center For Performing Arts Methuen (CPAM) dance apparel is allowed for warm-up. (tap shoes must be purchased at our dance school)
Boys Tap Dance Attire: White t-shirt, black tapered legging, black sweatpants or shorts, black sox, black tap shoes (Tap shoes must be purchased at our dance studio). Center For Performing Arts Methuen (CPAM) dance apparel is allowed for warm-up.
Dance & Acting School Info
