Tap
Tap Dance is a uniquely American art form. When enslaved Africans were forcibly brought to America, they used drums to communicate with each other. Eventually, slave owners took away these instruments and enslaved people used their bodies as instruments through the form of percussive dancing. Tap history is African American history. As a result, our instructors are dedicated to teaching students about the origins of American Tap Dance, along with historically significant choreography. Students enrolled in tap classes can expect to learn historical material as well as modern choreography.Our tap faculty offers an incredible range of experience and knowledge to our students, interlacing the history of tap dance and tap dance icons with the acquisition of tap fundamentals and steps.
PRESCHOOL DIVISION
Pre-Tap, Pre-Tap/Pre-Ballet, & Pre-Tap/Pre-Jazz (4 - 6 year olds) classes offer hybrid introductions to tap and another genre. Each hybrid class includes technique, choreography and free dance time. This is a great option for students who have lots of energy and are interested many styles! Tap shoes are required at all levels.
STUDIO DIVISION
Primary Tap (6 year olds) is for beginners with no experience.
Tap 1 (7-10 year olds) is for beginners with no experience. This level will introduce dancers to the fundamentals of Tap. Students will learn basic technique, work on understanding how movement and music are connected, and gain a strong understanding of rhythm. Tap 1 students will also be introduced to the history of American Tap Dance.
Tap 2 & 3 (8-12 year olds) are for students with one year of recent experience in the same style and build upon the foundations of technique and combinations learned in Level 1. Students will strengthen their understanding of rhythm and will apply this knowledge through their learning of choreography, as well as improvisation. Tap 2 & 3 classes ensure that dancers have the correct technique in order to excel in Conservatory Level Tap. Many students will spend more than one year in a level to gain confidence in their fundamentals.
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CONSERVATORY DIVISION
Tap 4, 5, 6, & 7: Conservatory Levels require 2 years of recent experience in the same style and an instructor recommendation. Conservatory Tap Students are expected to maintain good attendance, exhibit appropriate classroom etiquette, and have a strong work ethic. While technique will continue to be improved, classes will also focus more on performance and improvisation skills. Dancers in Conservatory Tap will continue to expand their knowledge of the history of American Tap Dance and will learn both historical and contemporary material.
Students new to BDTS may be placed by age or arrange a placement audition.
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TEEN/TWEEN DIVISION
Teen/Tween Tap is designed for beginning teens who are newly interested in dance or have taken a few year’s off from dance classes. Classes meet for one hour each week and include an emphasis on efficient technique AND fun! In Spring, students will also gain performance skills as they prepare to participate in recital productions. Beginning teens are also welcome to take Adult Tap classes at the appropriate level.
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ADULT ​DIVISION
Adult Tap is geared towards tap beginners and those who haven’t tapped in a while. We will learn tap technique, history, classic and modern choreography, and fun combinations that will keep you dancing all week long. Relaxed workout attire and tap shoes required.
