Chikako Iwahori: Should a beginner start out with a cheap tap shoes or invest in a top of the line shoes?

About Chikako

Originally from Tokyo, Japan, Chikako moved to New York City in 1995. A much sought after, versatile performer, Chikako has been performing with many tap dance companies such as Max Pollak's, "Rumba Tap", a unique mix of Afro Cuban music and dance, tap & body percussion. "Barbara Duffy & Company", an all women's tap company, Heather Cornell's, "Manhattan Tap" and was a founding member of Irena Koloseus's, "Feraba-African Rhythm Tap Company". Chikako is touring internationally with all groups.

Aside from Dance, Chikako is currently a percussionist, tap dancer and vocalist in the band, "Beat the Donkey", led by world famous percussionist Cyro Baptista. The band has performed at some of the most prestigious music festivals around the world, such as Jazz at Lincoln Center, The Kennedy Center, Festival d'Agadir in Morocco.

Wednesday, January 20, 2010

Should a beginner start out with a cheap tap shoes or invest in a top of the line shoes?

I would say start with inexpensive one first. But make sure it's right size for you and feels comfortable. As a beginner, you don't have technic enough to prevent yourself from injuries. So it is important to have shoes that feel comfortable to you.
When I started tap dance back in Japan, my teacher did not allow students to buy tap shoes for about 3 months. We had to get okay from him to buy one!!! So we were in sneakers for the first few months. Well, that is little extreme. But it certainly made me work hard so I can reach my first goal of putting tap shoes on.
Once you get basics and feel like you want to continue, then I would recommend you to get better shoes. It does make difference in sound.