The glossary and tap technique were originally compiled by the founder Zelia Raye for what was then known, in 1932, as the Stage Branch. The work was developed and adapted further by Janet Cram and Tom Parry, Marjorie Davies, Gwen Carter and Moyra Gay, whose publications Modern Tap Technique and The Basic Technique of Tap are the standard text books.

 

Tap is rhythm - rhythm is tap. Its origins are many and varied. Americans claim its origin dates from the African Jazz age. The Irish stake their claim to the Jigs and Step Dancing. The English relate back to northern Clog Dancers but whichever one chooses to believe, Tap is as popular today as it was in the heyday of the great Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly musicals. Evergreen shows, 42nd Street and Crazy For You, and the more recent Stomp and Tap Dogs highlight the great diversities of style and music in tapping. A gentle, rhythmical and enjoyable way to keep fit!