Tap dance is a rhythmic percussive dance style characterized by the use of taps on the shoes of the dancer against the floor. It originated in the African American communities in the United States in the early 19th century and was popularized in the vaudeville and Broadway theater circuits in the early 20th century. Tap dance emphasizes complex footwork, syncopated rhythms, and intricate patterns, and is often accompanied by jazz or other types of music.
Hip hop dance, also known as urban or street dance, is a broad style of dance that evolved from the hip hop culture of the Bronx in New York City in the 1970s. It encompasses various styles, including breaking, popping, locking, krumping, and others, each characterized by its own unique movements and techniques. Hip hop dance is typically performed to hip hop music and is often improvisational, allowing for individual expression and creativity.
Here are some key differences between tap and hip hop dance:
Origin: Tap dance originated in the African American communities of the United States in the early 19th century, while hip hop dance emerged from the hip hop culture in the Bronx in the 1970s.
Style: Tap dance is characterized by its use of taps on the shoes against the floor, while hip hop dance encompasses a wide range of styles, including breaking, popping, locking, krumping, and others, each with its own unique movements.
Music: Tap dance is often accompanied by jazz or other types of music, while hip hop dance is typically performed to hip hop music.
Improvisation: Tap dance is often choreographed and rehearsed, while hip hop dance is often improvisational, allowing for individual expression and creativity.
Overall, tap and hip hop are two distinct styles of dance that have their own unique histories, styles, music, and approaches.