What Is Tap Dancing?

History: One of the most influential American dance forms, Tap is a percussive solo dance that rose to world popularity in the first half of the 20th century. Tap, like most American dance styles, is a derivation from a variety of dance forms, most notably the African Shuffle and the Irish Jig, with a possible Clogging influence.

How it works: Tap dancers create rhythmic patterns by shuffling, tapping, sliding, and stomping out patterns, amplified through their shoes, usually adorned with metal plates.

Why you should Tap: In addition to looking impressive and being fun, tap is a great way to gain balance, strength, agility, and musicality. Not only are you a dancer when you tap, but you are also a percussive instrument, playing along with the band.