Level Descriptions

Being an international festival, levels at STF are usually higher than back home. Below is a guide to what kind of previous experience and knowledge that is expected for each level.

Another important thing is learning tempo, as festival classes are usually much more intense than going to weekly classes at your local dance studio.

There has been some issues in previous years with students signing up for higher levels than their ability which results in the whole class being slowed down. In general, it takes at least a couple of years of regular tap training before moving on to the next level.

We want the teachers, fellow students and YOU to have the best time possible and get the most out of the classes.

It's possible to change Main Schedule group up until afternoon Friday April 3^rd. (If there are spots left)

NOTE - In the Main Schedule there are some groups with the same level. They are named with a color just to keep them apart, but there is no difference in the level.

Beginner (Level 1)
This group is for newcomers who want to start tap dancing and also for those of you who have done a little bit of tap dance before but still are learning the basics. Tap shoes are recommended, but not needed. Any hard leather sole shoe is great. We do also have many loan tap shoes.

Advanced Beginner (Level 2)
You have been tap dancing for a couple of years and are comfortable with simple shuffle, flap and paddle combinations. You can do the Shim Sham and The Walkaround/Coles Stroll.

Intermediate (Level 3)
You have a solid vocabulary of steps, including pull backs, and can execute different time step variations in various tempos. Improvisation is not new to you and you have a basic understanding of music and how to use it in your dance. You can do the Shim Sham, Walkaround/Coles Stroll, and BS Chorus.

Advanced Intermediate (Level 4)
Everything listed above for level 3 is in your bag + also wings & stuff, and you can use that vocabulary with different rhythmical variations. You are used to improvisation and make clear musical choices like phrasing, dynamics, setting grooves, etc. An up-tempo BS Chorus is no problem for you.

Advanced (Level 5)
At this level, self-criticism may be your strongest asset. If you with good conscience can say that you without a problem have moved way beyond all things in the level 4 description above, this is the level for you. Improvisation comes with ease, in various tempos and musical styles.

Professional (Level 6)
The professional track is set at a very high level, appropriate for professional tap dancers with the highest level of experience and competence. In this level you very quickly learn and understand new movements and musical concepts, and you use all your skills to develop your own artistic ideas. Improvisation is like breathing, and you do it with ease in any tempo and musical style.