Discover the captivating world of tap steps beginning with the letter “Y”.
From the playful verve of “Yessah” to the energetic rhythm of “Yankee Doodle”, immerse yourself in an array of dynamic moves designed to ignite your passion for dance.
| Tap Step | Description | Difficulty |
| Yank | A basic right-heel toe-touch tap step performed from a closed fifth position. | Beginner |
| Yankee Doodle | A series of five eighth-note steps performed from a closed fifth position, consisting of a step forward (right foot), a step to the side (left foot), a step back (right foot), a step to the side (left foot), and a step forward (right foot). | Intermediate |
| Yorkshire Twist | A basic tap step performed from a closed fifth position, consisting of a step forward (right foot), a weight shift (left foot), a step forward (left foot), and a weight shift (right foot). | Beginner |
Tap steps that start with y
Yacht: A step that involves stepping forward with the left foot and bringing the right foot close to the left foot in a parallel position, then stepping back with the right foot and bringing the left foot close to the right foot in a parallel position.
Yacht Step: Similar to the Yacht, but the feet are crossed in the front and back positions.
Yacht Roll: A combination of a Yacht Step and a Roll, where the dancer steps forward with the left foot, crosses the right foot in front of the left foot, rolls the weight to the right foot, and then brings the left foot close to the right foot in a parallel position.
Yogi: A step that involves stepping forward with the left foot and crossing the right foot behind the left foot, then stepping back with the right foot and crossing the left foot behind the right foot.
Yogi Roll: Similar to the Yogi, but the feet are rolled in the front and back positions.
Yogi Shuffle: A combination of a Yogi Step and a Shuffle, where the dancer steps forward with the left foot and crosses the right foot behind the left foot, shuffles the weight to the right foot, and then brings the left foot close to the right foot in a parallel position.
Yo-Yo: A step that involves stepping forward with the left foot and hopping on the left foot while bringing the right foot up in front of the left knee, then stepping back with the right foot and hopping on the right foot while bringing the left foot up in front of the right knee.
Yo-Yo Roll: Similar to the Yo-Yo, but the feet are rolled in the front and back positions.
Yo-Yo Shuffle: A combination of a Yo-Yo Step and a Shuffle, where the dancer steps forward with the left foot and hops on the left foot while bringing the right foot up in front of the left knee, shuffles the weight to the right foot, and then brings the left foot close to the right foot in a parallel position.
Yank: A step that involves stepping forward with the left foot and bringing the right foot close to the left foot, then stepping back with the right foot and bringing the left foot close to the right foot. The Yank is similar to the Yacht, but the feet are brought closer together.
Tap Steps That Start with Y
Yessah
Yessah is a lively tap dance step that involves a preparatory step, a step forward, a hop, and a final step backward. It exudes a playful and energetic vibe and is often used to add a touch of syncopation and rhythm to tap dance routines.
Yessah Back
Yessah Back is a tap step where the dancer kicks their leg straight back with their toes pointed, then quickly brings it back to the starting position. The step is often used in jazz and hip-hop routines.
Yessah Front
Yessah Front is a basic tap step that originates with the feet parallel and slightly apart.
The dancer steps forward with the right foot, then brings the left foot to meet it, crossing in front.
The knees are slightly bent and the weight is distributed evenly between both feet.
Yessah Up (or Up on Toe)
Yessah Up (or Up on Toe): A tap step where the dancer rises up onto their toes, creating a light and airy sound.
Followed by a step forward or back, creating a smooth transition and a sense of movement.
Yankee Doodle
Yankee Doodle, a lively folk song and dance popularized during the American Revolution, features energetic stepping patterns. Dancers perform heel clicks, toe taps, and intricate footwork, often accompanied by arm gestures and a cheerful tune.
Its lively rhythm and playful nature make it a beloved tap dance classic.
Yankee Doodle Pick-Up
Yankee Doodle Pick-Up: A lively tap step characterized by a quick pick-up of the front foot and a slight hop on the back foot, followed by a tap of the front foot behind the back foot.
Its upbeat rhythm adds a lively touch to tap routines.
Yankee Doodle with Right Turn
Yankee Doodle with Right Turn: a tap step that incorporates a hop, a tap, and a right turn. The dancer starts with their feet together, hops forward onto their right foot while simultaneously tapping their left foot, and then turns their body to the right while bringing their left foot to meet their right.
Yell
Yell is an energetic tap step characterized by a loud, accented sound. The dancer strikes the floor with the ball of the foot, creating a percussive beat.
Yell is often used to emphasize a particular moment in a tap dance routine or to create a sense of excitement and energy.
Final Verdict
In the realm of tap dancing, captivating steps emerge from the letter “Y” to enthrall audiences.
From the exuberant energy of the “Yessah” to the graceful poise of the “Yankee Doodle,” these steps showcase the artistry and versatility of this dynamic dance form.
Whether performed solo or as part of an ensemble, the taps that begin with “Y” ignite a rhythmic symphony, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of tap enthusiasts worldwide.
