Do you love to tap dance? Or, are you simply curious about the history and evolution of this unique art form? Either way, Brian Seibert’s book “What the Eye Hears: A History of Tap Dancing”is a must-read for anyone interested in the fascinating story of tap dancing.
In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore the origins of tap dancing, how societal and cultural influences impacted its development over time, and notable tap dancers throughout history. We’ll also delve into Seibert’s writing style and research methods, as well as discuss the impact that tap dancing has had on American culture. Get ready to be swept away by the rhythm and sound of “What the Eye Hears: A History of Tap Dancing.”
Key Takeaways
- Tap dancing has its roots in Africa and was brought to America through the slave trade, and African American performers incorporated their unique style into minstrel shows, which helped shape tap dancing in the late 19th century.
- Bill ‘Bojangles’ Robinson and Fred Astaire brought tap dancing into mainstream culture, but race has played a significant role in the development of tap dancing, with African American dancers often excluded from mainstream performances.
- Jazz and swing music greatly influenced tap dancing, allowing for greater creativity and individual expression, and the use of improvisation in tap dancing has allowed modern performers to push boundaries and explore new ways of blending music with movement.
- Brian Seibert’s book ‘What the Eye Hears: A History of Tap Dancing’ offers a deeper understanding of how tap dance icons shaped the evolution of tap dance on stage, exploring the social and cultural contexts in which tap dance emerged and evolved and its significance beyond just entertainment, including breaking down racial barriers during the early 20th century and influencing other dance forms like jazz and hip hop.
The Origins of Tap Dancing
Now you’re going to learn about where tap dancing first came from and how it evolved over time into the art form we know today. The history of tap dancing is rooted in Africa, where rhythmic footwork was used as a form of communication. This style of dance was brought over to America through the slave trade and eventually began to blend with European styles, such as Irish step-dancing.
Tap dancing truly began to take shape in the late 19th century when African American performers began incorporating their unique style into minstrel shows. From there, tap dancing continued to evolve and grow in popularity throughout the early 20th century with names like Bill “Bojangles”Robinson and Fred Astaire bringing it into mainstream culture.
Today, tap dancing remains an important part of American dance culture with influences from around the world. It has become a symbol of freedom and expression for many dancers who use its intricate rhythms and beats to tell stories through movement. But before we dive deeper into those societal and cultural influences on tap dancing, let’s first explore how this unique dance form has grown from its African roots while also being influenced by European traditions.
Societal and Cultural Influences
You may be surprised to learn that race has played a significant role in the development of tap dancing. African American dancers were often excluded from mainstream performances and had to create their own opportunities, leading to the creation of unique styles and techniques. Additionally, jazz and swing music had a profound influence on tap dancing, with the improvisational nature of these genres allowing for greater creativity and individual expression within this art form. It is impossible to fully understand the evolution of tap dancing without acknowledging these societal and cultural influences.
The role of race in tap dancing
If you want to truly understand tap dancing, it’s important to acknowledge the significant role that race has played in its history and development. Tap dance and segregation were intertwined during the early 20th century, with black dancers often being relegated to performing in separate venues from white dancers. Despite this discrimination, tap dance continued to evolve thanks in large part to the influence of black culture. The syncopated rhythms of African drumming and the intricate footwork of Irish step dancing merged together in a unique fusion that became known as tap dance.
The influence of jazz and swing music further propelled tap dance into mainstream popularity. These genres provided a rhythmic backdrop that complemented the percussive nature of tap dance, leading to collaborations between musicians and dancers. However, even as tap dance expanded its reach into popular culture, racial divisions persisted. Many prominent white performers appropriated elements of black culture without giving credit or recognition to their black counterparts. Understanding this complicated history is crucial for appreciating not only the artistry but also the social significance of tap dancing.
The influence of jazz and swing music
Get ready to feel the beat because jazz and swing music had a huge impact on the evolution of tap dance. Improvisation and syncopation in jazz influenced tap routines as dancers used their feet to create musical rhythms alongside the music. This created a unique style that was characterized by intricate footwork, complex rhythms, and dynamic movement.
In addition, swing music introduced African rhythms into tap performances. Dancers began incorporating African beats into their routines, leading to a fusion of cultures that made tap dancing even more exciting and diverse. The incorporation of these elements added depth to the art form and gave it an edge that continues to captivate audiences today. As we move towards exploring ‘the evolution of tap dance on stage’, it’s important to note how jazz and swing music laid the foundation for future generations of tappers.
The Evolution of Tap Dance on Stage
As you watch tap dancing performances on stage, you can witness the evolution of this art form and how it has transformed over time. Tap dance techniques have evolved from the traditional soft-shoe and hard-shoe styles to modern tap performances that incorporate more complex rhythms, footwork, and syncopation. The tapping sounds have become more intricate, with dancers using their entire bodies to produce a range of different tones.
One notable development in tap dancing is the use of improvisation. Dancers now have the freedom to express themselves through their movements and create unique performances each time they step onto the stage. This level of creativity has allowed modern tap performers to push boundaries and explore new ways of blending music with movement.
Overall, the evolution of tap dancing on stage has been influenced by various factors such as music trends, cultural changes, and individual creativity. As we move into the next section about notable tap dancers in history, we can see how these individuals have contributed to shaping this art form into what it is today.
Notable Tap Dancers in History
From Fred Astaire’s smooth moves to Gregory Hines’ electric rhythm, the world has witnessed a plethora of iconic tap dancers throughout history. These legendary performers have left an indelible mark on the art form with their unique styles and innovative techniques. Here are some notable tap dancers in history:
- Bill “Bojangles”Robinson: Known for his lightning-fast footwork and signature staircase dance, Robinson was one of the first African-American performers to break through racial barriers in Hollywood.
- Sammy Davis Jr.: A true triple threat, Davis Jr. not only excelled at tap dancing but also singing and acting. His famous “Mr. Bojangles”routine is still celebrated today.
- Savion Glover: Considered by many as the greatest tap dancer of our time, Glover brought a modern edge to traditional tap dance with his use of hip-hop rhythms and improvisation.
- Eleanor Powell: Known for her athletic style and precision footwork, Powell was dubbed “the queen of tap dancing”during her heyday in the 1930s and 1940s.
While these legends have cemented their place in tap dance history, there are also talented tap dancers today who continue to push the boundaries of the art form. Some noteworthy contemporary performers include Michelle Dorrance, Jason Samuels Smith, and Ayodele Casel.
Seibert’s research and writing style offers a deeper understanding of how these icons shaped the evolution of tap dance on stage.
Seibert’s Research and Writing Style
You’ll be captivated by Seibert’s unique research and writing style, which offers a deeper understanding of how the icons of tap dance shaped the evolution of this beloved art form. Through Seibert’s prose, you’ll gain insight into the intricacies of tap dancing that were previously unexplored. He delves deep into the history and culture surrounding tap dance, making connections that are both fascinating and thought-provoking.
Seibert’s depth of analysis is truly remarkable. His meticulous research allows him to paint a vivid picture of the origins and influences that have made tap dancing what it is today. He explores the social and cultural contexts in which tap dance emerged and evolved, providing a nuanced perspective on its significance beyond just entertainment.
Overall, Seibert’s writing style is engaging, insightful, and thoroughly enjoyable for anyone with an interest in dance or American culture at large. As you continue reading his book, you’ll become increasingly aware of the impact that this art form has had on American society as a whole – from its origins in African American communities to its widespread popularity among all races and classes.
The Impact of Tap Dancing on American Culture
When it comes to the impact of tap dancing on American culture, there are three key points to consider. Firstly, this dance form played a pivotal role in breaking down racial barriers during the early 20th century. Secondly, tap dancing has had a significant influence on other dance forms like jazz and hip hop. Finally, its popularity in popular culture has led to countless film and television appearances throughout history. All in all, tap dancing is an art form that continues to captivate audiences and hold an important place in American cultural history.
Its role in breaking down racial barriers
Hey, you can’t deny that tap dancing played a major role in smashing racial barriers and bringing people of all backgrounds together on the dance floor. Tap dancers were some of the first performers to challenge segregation by dancing alongside each other regardless of their skin color. This was a bold move during a time when Jim Crow laws enforced strict segregation in public spaces. However, through tap dancing, Black and White performers found common ground and created something beautiful together.
Tap dancing’s impact on breaking barriers goes beyond just race; it also broke down gender norms. Women were often excluded from tap classes in the early days but eventually became prominent figures in the industry, challenging societal expectations for women’s roles both on and offstage. Additionally, tap dancers often incorporated movements from different cultures into their routines, promoting cultural exchange and acceptance through dance.
Its influence on other dance forms and popular culture is undeniable, as tap has been featured in numerous Hollywood films such as “Singin’ in the Rain”and “The Nicholas Brothers: We Sing and We Dance.”But its historical significance cannot be overlooked; without tap dancers taking risks to break down barriers between races and genders, we might not have seen such progress towards equality today.
Its influence on other dance forms and popular culture
Tap dancing’s influence on popular culture is undeniable, as it has inspired and shaped numerous other dance forms. One of the most significant ways in which tap has impacted popular culture is through its presence in film and musical theatre. Classic Hollywood films such as “Singin’ in the Rain”and “42nd Street”featured elaborate tap dance numbers that captivated audiences worldwide. These films not only showcased the technical prowess of tap dancers but also helped to make tap a more mainstream form of entertainment.
Similarly, tap has played a crucial role in shaping the landscape of modern musical theatre. Broadway shows like “42nd Street”and “Bring in ‘da Noise, Bring in ‘da Funk”have incorporated tap into their choreography, creating unforgettable performances that have thrilled audiences for decades. Tap’s ability to seamlessly blend with other dance styles such as jazz and hip hop has allowed it to remain relevant even today. The influence of tap can also be seen outside of traditional performance spaces, with street performers incorporating elements of tap into their acts. Overall, tap’s impact on popular culture cannot be overstated, and its legacy continues to inspire new generations of dancers today.
Conclusion
Well done! You’ve just finished reading Brian Seibert’s “What the Eye Hears: A History of Tap Dancing,”and you’re probably feeling pretty impressed with yourself for learning so much about this fascinating art form. But before you move on to your next read, let’s take a moment to reflect on what we just learned.
Seibert’s meticulous research and engaging writing style paint a vivid picture of the origins, evolution, and impact of tap dancing on American culture. From the early influences of African dance to the societal and cultural factors that shaped its development, tap dance has always been more than just entertainment; it’s a reflection of our history and values.
So next time you find yourself tapping your feet along to a catchy beat, remember the rich history behind this seemingly simple act. And who knows? With enough practice, maybe you’ll be able to bust out some moves like Bill “Bojangles”Robinson or Fred Astaire – anachronistic names today, but giants in their day – and keep this incredible art form alive for generations to come.