Grade 3 Tap builds upon the foundational rhythms and techniques established in earlier levels of the Al Gilbert Tap Syllabus. This level introduces more intricate footwork, increased speed, and rhythmic complexity while emphasizing clarity of sounds and musicality. Students will continue to develop control, timing, and coordination through exercises such as flaps, cramp rolls, drawbacks, paddle and rolls, shuffles, riffs, and time steps, with added variations and combinations.
This level is perfect for dancers who have mastered beginner tap skills and are ready to challenge their technique and rhythmic understanding in a supportive, progressive learning environment.
Intermediate Tap starts at Grade 5 Tap using the Al Gilbert Tap Syllabus designed for students with a solid foundation in tap technique and musicality. This level focuses on refining clarity, speed, and control while introducing more complex rhythms, syncopation, and intricate footwork patterns.
Dancers will expand their vocabulary with advanced exercises including wings, pick-ups, pullbacks, grab-offs, maxi-fords with turns, advanced time steps, and rhythm turns. Emphasis is placed on clean execution, proper weight shifts, and developing a strong sense of style and stage presence.
Grade 5 also encourages improvisation and rhythm exploration, helping dancers to connect more deeply with the music and express individuality. This level bridges foundational technique with pre-professional performance skills, preparing dancers for advanced tap studies and choreography.
At the Grade 5 level, choreography becomes an essential component of tap training, allowing dancers to apply their technique in a creative and performance-based setting. Students learn to execute longer, more rhythmically complex combinations that highlight their precision, timing, and musical interpretation.
This class fosters creativity and confidence, challenging dancers to interpret music, retain choreography quickly, and perform with energy, personality, and style—all essential for auditions, performances, and further progression in tap dance.
Al Gilbert's Grade 5 & 6 Tap Technique Program is an advanced curriculum designed to further develop the skills of seasoned tap dancers. This program builds on previous levels by introducing more sophisticated techniques, including advanced rhythm patterns, intricate footwork sequences, and complex time steps. Students will focus on refining their technical execution, speed, and precision while exploring dynamic combinations and transitions. The curriculum emphasizes versatility, incorporating elements such as syncopation, advanced turns, and expressive performance techniques. With a strong focus on musicality and artistic expression, the Grade 5 & 6 program prepares dancers for higher-level challenges and competitive performance opportunities, fostering both technical excellence and creative flair.
Al Gilbert's Grade 5-6 Tap Dance choreography for competition is an intricate and electrifying routine designed to highlight the advanced skills of young tap dancers. This competition piece features complex footwork, rapid rhythms, and sophisticated patterns, all executed with technical precision and dynamic flair. The choreography incorporates advanced elements such as syncopated sequences, elaborate time steps, and intricate turns, demanding both speed and control. With a strong emphasis on musicality and performance quality, dancers are encouraged to bring their own personality and energy to the routine. This piece aims to captivate judges and audiences with its combination of technical brilliance and engaging stage presence, making it a standout choice for competitive tap dance events.
