In this conversation, Rachel Gain, a tap dancer, flautist, and Yale doctoral student, explores the overlooked world of tap dance in academia. They share their journey from flute to rhythm tap, influenced by jazz and improvisation. Rachel delves into the challenges of music notation for tap, emphasizing its embodied, ethical aspects and the limitations of traditional transcription. They advocate for a holistic approach to notation that respects tap's rich culture and improvisational spirit, highlighting the need for a deeper understanding between dancers and musicians.
