Practice is the key to becoming a better tap dancer. Jimmy Slyde said “You need to put the “e” on the end of “improv”…you need to improve.”
Often students ask me what they need to be able to practice tap on their own. Here are the basics:
1. Space – Just enough space to execute “shuffles” without breaking things. 
2. Plywood – A sheet cut to fit your designated practice space. Home Depot or Lowe’s would be a good place to pick this up. They will even cut the sheet down to size for you.
3. Something that keeps time – This could be a music player or something else. I have found that practicing with a metronome is a very effective way to practice tap dancing.
And most importantly…
4. The Will to Practice – Without this, the other three won’t really do you any good. Moreover, if this is all you have you, can always practice tap in your socks!
Taps
Students of Jimmy Slyde: Roxanne Butterfly; Joseph Wiggan
October 14th, 2007 at 11:52 am
Hi Terrence,
Jo Turner here. Just wanted you to know I really like your site – Especially your links and tips. I’m working on a book with to highlight the Tap festivals offered and what people think about them. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated. Feel free to pass this on. Take care and keep dancin’!
‘Til the wheels fall off,
Dancer J:o)
October 15th, 2007 at 10:03 am
Nice to meet you Jo. Definitely keep on touch! Also, please email me letting me know more about the project you’re working on.
You can reach me at Taps [at] TapDanceMan [dot] com