Episode Summary:

In this episode of Dance Studio 411, we dive into the world of tap with Julie Kay Stallcup, Melanie McGonigal, and Mandy Yip, the passionate team behind the innovative Tap Roots curriculum. This power house trio discuss the historically significant art form and their new curriculum, Tap Roots, which provides a structured and comprehensive approach to teaching tap in dance studios. 

Key Takeaways:

• Preserving Tap’s Legacy: Tap dance is culturally rich and historically significant but often underrepresented, especially in competitions and conventions.
• Consistency is Key: The Tap Roots curriculum promotes consistency in terminology, helping students build on their knowledge even if teachers change.
• Teaching with Confidence: By offering structured resources, Tap Roots empowers teachers of all levels to teach tap with confidence and creativity.
• Magic in the Shoes: As Julie Kay beautifully puts it, “When tap shoes are on a child's feet, magic happens.”

Time Stamps:

• 02:22 – Julie Kay shares her personal journey with tap dance and its lifelong impact on her.
• 06:26 – Discussion on the decline of tap dance in competitions and the need to revitalize its presence.
• 11:57 – How Tap Roots ensures consistency in tap terminology and instruction across studios.
• 13:41 – Overview of the Tap Roots curriculum, including lesson plans, worksheets, and certification.
• 18:34 – Strategies for new tap teachers to build confidence in their teaching abilities.
• 25:15 – Creative teaching strategies to develop musicality in tap dancers.

Links Mentioned in this Episode:

Tap Roots Website

Discount Code: REV15 for 15% off

admin@taproots.dance 

About Our Guest:

About Taproots:

Taproots is a foundational curriculum for teaching Tap Dancing. Tap Roots offers a progressional method for instruction, honoring traditional and modern elements. Starting at the Primary level, we introduce Tap with single sounds, basic movement, and an easily understandable foundation that builds to the advanced skills of Level Six. By following our syllabus, your students will develop a comprehensive aptitude for Tap and the tools needed to propel their Tap Dancing to even higher achievements.

Get Connected:

Tap Roots Instagram: @taprootsdance

Julie Kay Stalcup Instagram: @jkstallcup

Rate, Review & Subscribe!

If you loved this episode, be sure to subscribe and leave us a review. Your feedback helps us continue to bring valuable content to the dance community!

Running a dance studio is hard work, and growing your studio is even more of a challenge. No matter if you're just starting out—or perhaps you're a well-established owner; we understand that it's a uniquely demanding and personal business to own and operate. Be more effective and productive. 

As studio owners ourselves, we've been there. But, it's also very possible to be a happy owner of a thriving dance business that you love.

Learn More About Membership: https://www.dancestudioowner.com/public/joinnow.cfm