Introducción al Appalachian Flatfooting: ¡Música para tus pies!

We will learn the basics of Appalachian Flatfooting.  We'll cover how to make percussive sounds with our feet by learning a few basic steps, then how to add more sounds and movements with accent steps.  I will lead the class and demonstrate steps for students, then we will practice the steps with & without music.  We will build on what we learn each week.  There will be opportunity for questions throughout each session, and I will also show video clips of other flatfoot dancers for inspiration and to learn about Appalachian culture.  No prior dance experience required.  Leather-soled, low-heeled shoes recommended, tap shoes can work.  Dancers will also need a surface, such as a 3x3 foot smooth wood board with carpet or rubber mat underneath.  Comfortable workout clothing and a water bottle recommended.  This class is physical, so please be cautious if the student has any musculoskeletal issues or differences.  We will do a warm-up and stretch at the beginning of each class.  We will utilize traditional roots music to dance to every class.

Week 1: Learn the basic step & how to add a heel sound accent to the basic step.  We'll cover some basic balance and ergonomic concepts to keep our bodies safe while dancing.
Week 2: Review the basic step & basic plus heels.  We'll start learning how to add the toe accent sound to the basic step.
Week 3: Review the basic step, basic plus heels, basic plus toes.  Learn how to do toe & heel combinations with the basic step.
Week 4: Review the basic step, basic plus heels, basic plus toes, and toe+heel combinations.  Learn chug steps and how to combine with the basic step.