Rhythm tap, or American tap as it is also known, is a type of tap dance that is accessible for all and has a welcoming World Wide community. Rhythm tap concentrates on the musicality of tap as a percussive instrument using all parts of your tap shoes. It is similar, but different, to the Broadway tap mainly taught in dancing schools in the UK. Rhythm tap has its roots in early 19th century America and is a fusion of African and Irish dance and jazz music. Today it has progressed into a truly breathtaking art suitable for everyone no matter what your age or background.

I don't remember a time when I didn't love tap dance. As a child I watched all the old song and dance movies and I wanted to tap dance just like them. I started dancing when I was 4, and have never stopped! I studied tap, ballet and modern taking my vocational level and teaching exams with the ISTD and RAD. I have taught for several different dancing schools, University tap societies and tap festivals. I'm also a qualified and experienced fitness instructor and taught aerobics, yoga and pilates for many years.

Just when I thought I couldn't enjoy tap any more I went to a rhythm tap class at Pineapple Dance Studios in London, and I was hooked. A whole new world of tap classes, teachers and festivals opened before me and I haven't looked back since. I've done countless hours of classes in London, attended many tap dance festivals across Europe and been taught by some of the leading names in tap dance. I've been part of Kerry tap Ensemble for several years, and with them I was part of the bronze medal winning team in the IDO European tap championships in Prague 2023. In 2024 I joined Sole Rebel’s Training and Performance Company, and with this tap company I have performed across the UK.

It's this love and enjoyment of rhythm tap and dance in general that I want to share with people. Come along and join in the fun!

Dr Tamara Clelford