Intermediate to Advanced Clogging
Ages 12+ to Adults
Day: Thursday
Time: 6:45-7:45
Who Should Take This Class? This class is for anyone who has completed at least three or more sessions of Beginning Clogging.
Class Duration: 1 Hour
Objective: To further develop the skills and techniques of intermediate cloggers, expand their repertoire of steps and choreography, and prepare them for more advanced levels of clogging.
September and October: Review and Refinement of Basic Steps
Review of Basic Steps
- Recap foundational steps such as the brush, stomp, heel dig, shuffle, and double shuffle.
- Focus on refining technique, precision, and execution.
- Introduce variations and stylizations to add complexity.
Intermediate Steps
- Introduce new intermediate-level steps such as the hop, triple, and rock steps.
- Break down each step into components and practice with slow-tempo music.
- Emphasize proper weight distribution and timing.
Syncopated Rhythms
- Explore syncopated rhythms and accents within clogging steps.
- Practice shifting weight and adding emphasis to different beats.
- Incorporate syncopation into basic and intermediate step combinations.
November and January: Choreography and Musicality
Choreography Development
- Teach intermediate-level clogging routines with longer sequences and more intricate footwork.
- Break down choreography into sections and practice transitions between steps.
- Focus on musicality and phrasing, matching steps with the rhythm and melody of the music.
Musical Interpretation
- Explore different genres of music commonly used in clogging, such as bluegrass, country, and Celtic.
- Practice interpreting musical cues and accents through footwork and body movements.
- Experiment with improvisation and freestyle clogging to develop creativity.
Performance Dynamics
- Discuss the importance of dynamics, pacing, and expression in clogging performances.
- Practice building tension and excitement through speed, intensity, and level changes.
- Experiment with group formations and spatial patterns to enhance visual impact.
February and March: Specialty Steps and Styles
Specialty Steps
- Introduce specialty steps such as the paddle roll, pigeon wing, and buck time.
- Break down each step into components and practice with slow-tempo music.
- Emphasize coordination, balance, and control in executing specialty steps.
Style Exploration
- Explore different regional clogging styles, such as Appalachian, Irish, and Canadian.
- Learn about each style’s unique characteristics, techniques, and cultural influences.
- Practice incorporating elements of different styles into choreography and improvisation.
Partner and Group Clogging
- Introduce partner and group clogging routines with synchronized footwork and formations.
- Practice communication, cooperation, and timing with partners and fellow dancers.
- Explore lifts, spins, and other partner variations to exciting performances.
April and May: Performance Preparation and Artistry
Rehearsals and Polish
- Review choreography and refine performance skills.
- Practice as a group to ensure synchronization and cohesion.
- Finalize costumes, props, and stage setup for the performance.
Artistic Expression
- Discuss the role of artistic expression, storytelling, and emotion in clogging performances.
- Practice conveying narratives and themes through movement and facial expression.
- Experiment with character development and role-playing in choreography.
Dress Rehearsals and Feedback
- Conduct dress rehearsals in the performance space.
- Provide constructive feedback and make any necessary adjustments.
- Build confidence and excitement for the upcoming performance.
- Celebrate achievements and acknowledge individual progress.
- Reflect on the experience and discuss future goals in clogging.
Month 13: Performance Showcase and Reflection
Performance Day Preparation
- Review performance etiquette and backstage procedures.
- Warm-up exercises and mental preparation.
- Encourage students to support and cheer for their peers.
Performance Showcase
- Showcase the culmination of the year-long intermediate clogging journey to family, friends, and the community.