Episode 8: Ethel Bruneau Part 2 - How To Teach Tap Dance
Feb 9, 2016
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Montreal Tap Dance Legend 'Miss Swing' shares her teaching experience and philosophy as a Master Teacher. Topics include teaching fundamentals with patience and imagination, importance of style and class, balancing dance and family, and gratitude for influential figures in tap dance.
Understanding how each student learns and tailoring the teaching approach accordingly, including interactive methods like visualizing and mimicking letter shapes.
Emphasizing the importance of developing a distinct style and identity in tap dance, avoiding imitation and instead showcasing individuality and flair.
Deep dives
Teaching Tap Dance Fundamentals
In this podcast episode, Ethel Bruno discusses her teaching experience and philosophy when it comes to teaching tap dance. She emphasizes the importance of first understanding how each student learns and tailoring the teaching approach accordingly. She draws upon her experience working with young children, using interactive methods like asking them to visualize and mimic letter shapes to enhance their understanding of specific steps. Bruno also emphasizes the significance of repetition and note-taking in the learning process, ensuring students grasp the fundamentals and can apply them consistently. She believes in instilling discipline and patience, as well as encouraging students to develop their individual style and identity within tap dance.
The Value of Style and Class in Tap Dance
Ethel Bruno highlights the importance of developing a distinct style and class in tap dance. She emphasizes the need for both men and women to have a strong style that sets them apart and makes people take notice. Bruno cites examples of tap dancers like the Step Brothers, Bunny Briggs, and Chuck Green, who each had their own unique style and presence. She encourages dancers to avoid trying to imitate others and instead focus on showcasing their own personality and flair. Bruno believes that selling oneself on stage by expressing individuality and confident performance is key to attracting and engaging audiences.
Balancing Dance and Personal Life
Ethel Bruno shares her perspective on balancing a dance career with personal life obligations. She shares her own experience as a mother and dancer, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing and making time for both family and dance. Bruno stresses the need to have open communication and support from one's partner in managing conflicting schedules and responsibilities. She also emphasizes the significance of making dates and taking time for oneself and one's partner. Bruno believes that finding the right balance and keeping the enjoyment and fun in both personal and professional pursuits is essential for long-term success in a dance career.
In celebration of her 80th birthday, Montreal Tap Dance Legend 'Miss Swing' joins Travis Knights and Tanya Rivard on the Podcast in the second of a 2 part interview. In this episode, 'Miss Swing' aka Ethel Bruneau, shares her experience and philosophy as a Master Teacher.
Check out the Tap Love Tour Youtube series 'The Interviews': https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEomMJ5rwlRXLGx2HLCsIsrHsbwdvxWab
Photo : Antonio Pierre de Almeida
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