Tap Dance Supplies: Essential Gear for Beginner and Professional Dancers
Tap dance supplies are an essential part of a dancer's toolkit, providing the necessary tools to hone their skills and bring their choreography to life. From shoes and boards to mics and lights, the right equipment can make all the difference in a performance or practice session. In this article, we'll explore the various types of tap dance supplies available, what to look for when shopping, and tips for choosing the right gear for your needs.
Shoes: The Foundation of Tap Dance
The most obvious, yet crucial, tap dance supply is a good pair of shoes. Tap shoes come in various styles, from basic to high-end models, and can be categorized into several types: jazz, clipless, and ballroom. Jazz shoes, often worn for street jazz and hip-hop, feature a flexible sole and a durable, breathable upper material. Clipless shoes, favored by professionals, have a metal plate attached to the heel or toe, providing better sound projection and control. Ballroom shoes, also known as "soft-shoes," feature a soft-sold sole and are designed for smooth floor execution.
When selecting tap shoes, consider factors such as comfort, durability, and sound quality. Brands like Capezio, Bloch, and Grishko are well-known for producing high-quality tap shoes that cater to various styles and budgets.
Tap Boards and Mats: A Safe and Comfortable Surface
Tap boards and mats provide a safe and comfortable surface for dancers to tap, reducing the impact on feet and allowing for better sound projection. Standard wooden tap boards measure 3/4 inch thick and are suitable for most studio and home practice. Dance mats, often made of rubber or vinyl, are great for those who prefer a soft, shock-absorbing surface.
Professional-grade tap boards, such as those made by Tapboard or Tap City, feature a wider range of dimensions and customizable designs.
Mics and Lighting: Enhancing the Performance Experience
To amplify the sound and visual impact of your tap dancing, consider investing in a high-quality microphone and lighting system. Dynamic microphones, such as the Shure SM58, pick up a range of frequencies and can handle high sound levels, making them ideal for tap dancing.
LED stage lights or softbox lights, such as those from K5600 or Arri, offer precise color adjustment and can be customized to create a unique atmosphere.
Tap Dance Taps and Plates
Tap dance taps, attached to the toe or heel of a shoe, are responsible for producing the distinctive sound of tap dancing. Some common types of taps include:
- Jazz Taps: Characterized by a single row of metal or rubber studs on the heel or toe.
- Stiletto Taps: Featuring a curved metal rod or flat plate on the toe.
- Pointe Shoe Taps: Small, metal studs attached to the toe and heel of a pointe shoe.
Tap plates, worn on the ball or heel of a jazz shoe, provide additional sound options and enhance the overall performance.
Tap Dance Accessories
Additional supplies can improve the tap dance experience, such as:
- Tap shoes bags: To protect and store shoes when not in use.
- Tap tap guards: To prevent tap plates and taps from slipping when moving between surfaces.
- Tap floor covers: To prevent noise and damage to floors during practice sessions.
Brand Spotlight: A Selection of Reputable Manufacturers
Here are a few notable brands known for producing high-quality tap dance supplies:
| Brand Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Capezio | Legendary dancewear brand offering a range of tap shoes, bags, and accessories. |
| Grishko | Professional dance shoe manufacturer with a focus on tap, contemporary, and jazz footwear. |
| Arri | Prestigious lighting brand offering precision- engineered stage lighting solutions. |
| K5600 | High-end lighting equipment manufacturer catering to film, television, and live performances. |
Conclusion: Elevating Your Tap Dance Practice
Investing in quality tap dance supplies can elevate your practice, enhance your performances, and bring out the full potential of your dancing. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, take the time to explore the various types of tap dance supplies available and find the right gear to suit your needs and budget.
