Participate in this fun, recreational and creative dance art. You will learn a variety of tap styles from the Gene Kelly/Fred Astaire era to modern jazz tap. No experience is necessary. If you have any doubt about your state of health or physical ability we recommend that you consult your doctor before enrolling.

Tap Dancing for Beginners

Course Description

Step into rhythm and discover the joy of tap dancing – a lively, energetic class that combines movement, music, and creativity for a truly fun and fulfilling experience. 

Whether you're looking to boost your fitness, sharpen your mind, or simply enjoy the beat beneath your feet, tap dance offers a dynamic way to stay active and express yourself. 

This class for absolute beginners is designed to enhance coordination, strength, and rhythm, while also lifting your spirits and reducing stress. The upbeat, percussive nature of tap makes it not just great exercise, but also an exciting form of self-expression that connects you to the joy of movement and music.

Open to all levels, this recreational course explores a variety of tap styles, from the golden-age elegance of Gene Kelly and Fred Astaire to the expressive rhythms of modern jazz tap. No previous dance experience is required – just a willingness to have fun and try something new! 

You'll gain confidence, improve balance, and learn fun routines that celebrate the art and history of tap. Come ready to make some noise, have a good time, and leave each class feeling energised and inspired. 

Please consult your doctor before enrolling if you have any concerns about your health or physical ability.

Course Structure

Throughout the course, students will progressively build their tap dancing skills by learning new styles and techniques each week. 

Starting with the basics, you'll gradually layer in more complex rhythms and combinations, allowing plenty of time to practice and reinforce what you've learned. 

Each class offers supportive instruction and repetition, helping you grow more comfortable and confident in your movements. 

As your coordination and timing improve, you’ll begin to connect steps into fun, musical routines that showcase your progress and creativity.

Course Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

• Demonstrate basic tap dance steps and rhythms with increasing coordination and control
• Recognise and perform simple combinations inspired by classic and modern tap styles
• Improve balance, posture, and overall physical awareness through movement
• Develop musicality by connecting tap steps with rhythm and timing
• Gain confidence in self-expression through dance
• Participate in short routines that incorporate learned techniques
• Experience the physical, mental, and emotional benefits of regular tap dance practice.

Course Requirements

Please wear loose, comfortable clothes.

Leather soled shoes are essential or bring your own tap shoes if you have them.

Your Tutor is Valerie Rivers

Valerie began teaching ,jazz ballet,  hip hop and fitness for the WEA in the early 80’s. 

Valerie is a qualified secondary teacher and a qualified dance and fitness instructor. 

Following the huge success of the Tap Brothers in the  80’s Valerie studied to become a tap dance teacher with Gwen Mackey, one of the most renowned dance teachers and Tom Fairlie who is a brilliant teacher and performer. Valerie teaches fitness, jazz ballet and tap at dance studios in the suburbs and has been teaching tap for the WEA for over ten years