Discover the dynamic tap steps beginning with the letter “D” and elevate your dancing skills! From the fundamental D tap to the captivating Dora, each step holds a unique history, definition, and technique.
Learn how to perform these steps, explore their variations, and add rhythmic diversity to your dance routines.
| Tap Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Dig | A step where the dancer rests all of their weight on the balls of their feet, then push down slightly, as if pushing into mud. |
| Double Tap | A step where the dancer taps their feet twice in quick succession, usually on the same spot or moving forward. |
| Double Shuffle | A step where the dancer steps forward with their left foot, then quickly steps forward again with their right foot, simultaneously lifting their left foot and tapping it in front of their right foot. |
| Drop Tap | A step where the dancer lifts their foot up and then drops it down hard, usually on the ball of their foot. |
| Drag | A step where the dancer slides their foot along the floor, usually while keeping their other foot planted. |
| Drill | A step where the dancer repeatedly taps their feet in place, usually in a specific pattern. |
Tap steps that start with d
Dig: A basic tap step in which the dancer shifts their weight from one foot to the other while tapping the floor with the toe of their opposite foot.
Double Dig: A variation of the dig in which the dancer taps the floor with both feet simultaneously.
Double Shuffle: A combination of steps in which the dancer taps the floor with one foot, then the other, and then both feet simultaneously.
Double Time Step: A series of quick, even taps performed with both feet.
Downbeat: A tap step performed on the downbeat of a musical measure.
Downstage: The area of the stage closest to the audience.
Down-Up: A tap step in which the dancer taps the floor with one foot, then raises it up and taps the floor again with the same foot.
Drag Tap: A tap step in which the dancer slides their foot across the floor while tapping it.
Drill: A series of repeated tap steps performed to improve technique and coordination.
Drop: A tap step in which the dancer lifts one foot off the floor and then drops it back down, tapping the floor with the toe.
Double Drop: A variation of the drop in which the dancer drops both feet simultaneously.
Doubletoe: A tap step in which the dancer taps the floor with both toes simultaneously.
Double Toe Stand: A position in which the dancer stands on both toes.
Double Flap: A tap step in which the dancer taps the floor with one foot, then the other, and then both feet simultaneously, while moving the feet in an alternating forward and backward motion.
Dynamite: A tap step in which the dancer taps the floor with one foot, then the other, and then both feet simultaneously, while moving the feet in a circular motion.
Double Roll: A tap step in which the dancer rolls both feet forward and backward simultaneously.
Double Slide: A tap step in which the dancer slides both feet across the floor simultaneously.
Double Spin: A tap step in which the dancer spins both feet in a circular motion simultaneously.
Double Stamp: A tap step in which the dancer stamps both feet on the floor simultaneously.
Double Kick: A tap step in which the dancer kicks both feet forward simultaneously.
Tap Steps Starting with “D”
D tap
D tap is a basic tap step that involves tapping the ball of one foot behind the heel of the other foot, then stepping forward onto that foot. It is a fundamental step in many tap dance routines and is often used to create a syncopated rhythm.
Definition
Definition: Tap steps that start with the letter “D” are dance moves in tap dance characterized by a specific footwork pattern, often emphasizing beats or syncopated rhythms.
These steps typically involve tapping the toes, heels, or sides of the feet against the floor to create distinct sounds.
History
History of dance steps starting with “D” can be traced back to various cultures and time periods.
Tap dancing, a form of percussive dance, emerged in the 19th century with steps like the dig, dip, and drag becoming fundamental to its vocabulary.
How to perform
- Double Shuffle: A quick and lively tap step involving alternating heel and toe taps with shuffling motions.
- Double Time: A fast tap step executed with double the tempo of the music, creating a sense of urgency and energy.
- Downbeat: A strong tap step emphasized on the downbeat of the musical measure, providing a clear and steady rhythm.
Variations
Variations in tap steps starting with “D” add complexity and flair to basic steps. From the simple double shuffle to intricate syncopated rhythms, these variations showcase the dancer’s skill and versatility.
Dive Roll
Dive Roll: A dynamic tap step where the dancer springs into the air, rotates their body, and lands on their feet in a smooth, continuous motion, creating a flowing and graceful transition in tap dance routines.
Definition
Definition: Tap steps that start with the letter “D” are a fundamental aspect of tap dance vocabulary.
These steps involve precise footwork and rhythmic patterns, creating dynamic and lively movements.
Dancers utilize these steps to express themselves creatively and engage the audience with their performances.
History
Tap steps starting with “D” have a rich history dating back to the early days of tap dance. One of the most famous tap dancers, Bill “Bojangles” Robinson, was known for his signature step, the “Double Shuffle.” Other popular tap steps starting with “D” include the “Dig,” the “Drag,” and the “Dip.”
How to perform
- Doretta: a hopping step to the right that moves the dancer across the floor while keeping the feet together and body square to the front.
- Double Shuffle: two quick taps of the toes, followed by two taps of the heels.
Variations
Variations in tap steps starting with “d” provide intricate rhythms and captivating performances. These steps, often improvised, add a unique flair to tap routines, showcasing the dancer’s creativity and skill in manipulating sounds through percussive footwork.
Dora
Dora is a lively tap step that adds a playful bounce to any routine.
Executed with a quick alternating toe and heel movement, Dora demands agility and coordination.
Definition
Definition: Tap steps that begin with the letter “D” are fundamental moves in tap dance, characterized by distinct footwork and rhythmic patterns.
These steps form the foundation of tap routines, providing a dynamic and percussive element to performances.
History
Throughout history, tap dance has evolved from its African roots to become a celebrated form of percussive dance. It gained immense popularity in the early 1900s and continues to captivate audiences worldwide, embodying the spirit of creativity and rhythmic artistry.
How to perform
- Double Shuffle: A basic tap step involving two quick taps with each foot, followed by a short pause.
- Digs: A forceful downward tap with one foot, often used as an accent or to create a syncopated rhythm.
Variations
Variations in tap steps starting with “D” add complexity and personal style to dance routines. Some popular variations include the Double Shuffle, Double Time Step, Double Toe Stand, and the Double Wing.
These variations allow dancers to showcase their creativity and rhythm.
Double Click
Double Click: A brisk, tapping step where the dancer strikes the floor twice with the same foot in quick succession, creating a lively and rhythmic sound.
Definition
Definition: Tap steps that start with the letter “D” in tap dance are characterized by quick, precise movements of the feet, often involving intricate footwork and syncopated rhythms.
These steps are fundamental building blocks of tap dance vocabulary and are used extensively in various tap dance routines and performances.
History
The history of tap steps starting with “D” can be traced back to the early 20th century, when tap dance emerged as a popular form of entertainment. These steps, including the dig, double shuffle, and drag, were influenced by African American and Irish dance traditions and have since become fundamental elements of tap vocabulary.
How to perform
- Double Time: Perform two taps per beat, creating a fast and lively rhythm.
- Dragging: Extend the duration of a tap by smoothly dragging your foot across the floor.
- Downbeat: Emphasize the first beat of a measure with a strong downward tap.
Variations
Variations in tap steps starting with “D” include:
- Double Shuffle: A basic step consisting of two quick taps followed by a shuffle.
- Double Time Step: A variation of the basic step, performed twice as fast.
- Dig: A forceful downward tap with the toe.
Double Dig
Double Dig: A tap step where the dancer strikes the floor twice with the same foot, first with the toe and then with the heel, creating a distinct double sound.
This step adds rhythm and variation to tap dance routines.
Definition
Definition: Tap steps that begin with the letter “D” are fundamental moves in tap dance characterized by distinct footwork patterns. These steps often involve intricate rhythms and precise movements, creating a lively and energetic performance.
History
- Double Shuffle: A rhythmic tap step characterized by alternating taps of the toes and heels.
- Double Toe Stand: A step in which the dancer stands on both toes while keeping the heels raised.
- Down Beat: A strong accented beat in music.
How to perform
To perform tap steps starting with “D,” begin with the basic step, the double shuffle. It involves stepping forward with your right foot, then quickly bringing your left foot to meet it.
Now, do the flap: step forward with your right foot, then tap your left foot behind your right.
Finish with a drag: slide your right foot forward while keeping your left foot stationary.
Variations
Variations of tap steps starting with “D” add intricacy and expressiveness to tap routines. From the crisp and energetic Double Shuffle to the syncopated Delight, these steps infuse performances with rhythmic diversity and visual appeal.
Dancers can explore nuanced variations to personalize their routines and captivate audiences.
Double Shuffle
Double Shuffle: A lively tap step characterized by a quick, alternating pattern of heel and toe taps, often performed in a syncopated rhythm.
Its playful and upbeat nature adds a lively touch to tap routines.
Definition
Definition: Tap steps starting with “D” involve intricate footwork characterized by rhythmic tapping sounds produced by the dancer’s shoes on the floor.
These steps often involve quick movements and precise foot placement, creating a lively and energetic dance style.
History
The history of tap dance can be traced back to the 19th century, originating from African American and Irish step dancing traditions.
It evolved through the minstrel shows of the mid-1800s and gained popularity in vaudeville and Broadway shows.
Tap steps starting with “D” are often used in tap routines for their dynamic and rhythmic qualities.
How to perform
- Double Shuffle: A basic tap step where the dancer quickly taps the ball of one foot twice, followed by the ball of the other foot twice, creating a lively rhythm.
- Drag: A step where the dancer slides one foot across the floor, creating a smooth and elegant transition.
- Dropped Ball Change: A tap step that involves dropping the weight onto the ball of one foot, then quickly shifting the weight to the other foot while simultaneously tapping the toe.
Variations
Variations on tap steps starting with “D” can include adding embellishments like kicks, stamps, or brushes. Dancers can also vary the speed, rhythm, and direction of the steps to create different effects.
Additionally, dancers can incorporate arm movements and body isolations to enhance the visual appeal of the tap dance routine.
Double Time Step
In tap dancing, the Double Time Step is an exciting move characterized by two sets of rapid taps executed one after the other, creating a lively and rhythmic sound. It’s a foundational step that adds an energetic flair to tap routines.
Definition
Definition:
Tap steps that start with the letter “D” are fundamental movements in tap dance characterized by their dynamic footwork and rhythmic patterns.
They involve intricate combinations of steps, taps, and body isolations, often showcasing the dancer’s agility, coordination, and musicality.
History
The history of tap dancing can be traced back to the 18th century, with roots in African American, Irish, and English dance traditions. It evolved through the minstrel shows of the 19th century and gained popularity in vaudeville and Broadway musicals in the early 20th century.
Tap steps starting with “D” include the dig, double shuffle, and drag.
How to perform
- Dip: Begin with heels together, toes slightly apart. Shift weight to one foot while the other leg extends behind.
- Drag: Slide the flat foot forward with a slight outward motion.
- Drop: Move the flat foot back, tapping it behind the supporting foot and creating a “drop” sound.
Variations
Variations of tap steps starting with “D” encompass a range of intricate footwork and rhythmic patterns.
Dancers can explore variations of the basic D-step, shuffle D, and Detroit combination, adding embellishments, syncopations, and changes in direction to create unique and visually captivating performances.
Duck Walk
Duck Walk, a fundamental tap step, involves alternating toe taps on the floor while keeping the knees bent and the weight shifted from one foot to the other. It’s a playful and energetic step that adds a lively rhythm to tap routines.
Definition
Definition: Tap steps that start with the letter “D” are fundamental movements in tap dance characterized by distinct footwork and rhythmic patterns. They form the building blocks of tap vocabulary and contribute to the overall dynamics and expressiveness of a tap dance routine.
History
The history of tap dance can be traced back to the African American and Irish communities in the United States in the 19th century. It evolved from various traditional dance forms and gained popularity in vaudeville and Broadway shows.
Tap steps starting with “d” are often used to create a sense of rhythm and syncopation in tap routines.
How to perform
- Dip: Start with your weight on one foot and slide the other foot forward while lowering your body.
- Drag: Slide your foot across the floor while keeping your weight on the other foot.
- Double Tap: Quickly tap your foot twice on the floor in the same spot.
- Double Shuffle: Slide your feet back and forth twice, alternating feet each time.
Variations
- Double Shuffle: A basic step with two quick taps followed by a shuffle.
- Dig Di: A step that involves tapping the toe, heel, and toe in quick succession.
- Double Toe Stand: A step where the dancer stands on one toe while tapping the other toe twice.
Final Verdict
The world of tap dance is enriched with a variety of steps starting with the letter “D.” From the energetic D tap to the graceful Dive Roll, and from the lively Dora to the captivating Double Click, these steps showcase the versatility and expressiveness of this dynamic dance form. Dancers can explore the intricate Double Dig, the rapid-fire Double Shuffle, the syncopated Double Time Step, and the playful Duck Walk, expanding their repertoire and adding a layer of complexity to their performances.
Each of these steps holds its own history, technique, and variations, inviting dancers to delve deeper into the art of tap and create mesmerizing routines that captivate audiences worldwide.
