Rhythmically Apparent
Finding New Ways to Make Sound
It is ironic that tap is traced back to the music and repressed dance movements of African slaves who were pprohibited from cultural and religious expression. Their previous exuberant dance movements had to be modified into low shuffles, sweeps and stomps. Their drums were replaced with foot tapping and clapping. BUT WHY DID THEY HAVE TO MODIFY THEIR DANCE MOVEMENTS?
*Click on the pictures below for more information
THE DRUM
•African dances are sophisticatedly guided by the drums rhythmically and stylistically.
•A skilled drummer can play the drum in a natural rhythm, creating a “talking drum” communicating through his instrument.
• Depending on the tone every beat the drummer plays can determine the word being said, it is very similar to the people that talk in tonal languages.
THE TAP SHOE
•Rhythm tap focuses on musicality, and is often to be thought of as foot drumming.
•The tapper depends on the “taps” which is the metal on the heel and metatarsal of the shoe, to create sound and numerous rhythms.
•The tapper can adjust the tone of the beat being played by loosening or tightening the screws on the shoes and also the position on the shoe that they are using.