Top 6 Clog Dance Youtube Channels

Are you looking to explore different styles of dance and music? Have you ever wanted to learn folk, tap, or clogging? Then you have come to the right place! Here, we have rounded up the best YouTube channels focused on clog dance, music, and dancing lessons. From jazz and orchestra to tap, folk, and of course, clogging - you can discover the best content around. Keep reading to explore some of the best YouTube channels for a clog dance, music, and dancing journey.

Clog dance: Best Youtube Channels

Origins of Clog Dancing

Clog dancing is a form of folk dance that originated in the 16th century in the British Isles before being popularized in the 20th century in the United States. It is characterized by its use of wooden-soled shoes and dynamic, tapping footwork. While the exact origins of clog dancing are unclear, experts believe it is closely related to traditional English dances such as Morris Dance and Sword Dance. There is evidence that dancers wearing clogs also appear in 16th century Dutch paintings and written accounts of early Dutch settlers in New Netherlands.

Clog dancing was likely brought to America by British immigrants in the 1800s. By the early 20th century, clog dancing had become popular in southern Appalachian regions of the United States. It later spread to other parts of the U.S. and Canada as well, where it fused with other traditional foot-stomping dances. An early form of clogging, known as 'flatfooting,' was even used in some forms of social partner dancing. By the time of the Second World War, clog dancing had spread throughout the U.S. and Europe and could be seen in folk festivals, vaudeville shows, and even in early films.

Clog dancing remains popular today and is now understood to be a truly international dance form. It has become a regular part of folk festivals, musical performances, and dance events. Cloggers come from a variety of backgrounds and bring different dance styles to their unique steps. Clogging is often seen as a combination of Irish step-dancing, tap dancing, and Scottish highland dance, combining high-energy footwork with intricate, swift arm movements. Whatever its particular origin, clog dancing continues to delight generations of dancers worldwide!

This blog post was written by Registered Nurse, Patricia Muldoon. She has over 25 years of experience in the healthcare field. She has a special interest in health promotion and prevention, especially for families. She holds certificates in both nursing and midwifery and is passionate about helping others live a healthy lifestyle. 

Clog Dance Styles Across the World

Clogging is a traditional dance style that dates back centuries in various parts of the world. From the vigorous Appalachian flat-footing in the USA and the joyous Irish step dance trend in Europe, to the soulful chackineros and zapateado of Latin America and the graceful uchimata of Japan, the variety of clog dance styles across nations and cultures is awe inspiring.

• In the USA, Appalachian flat-footing is a widely popular clog style that is characterized by powerful Irish jigs and a percussive footwork accompanied by fiddles and banjos. This style is believed to have originated from the Scottish, Irish, and English immigrants who traveled to the Appalachian Mountains. While the steps and movements of this style remain mostly the same, many modern-day Appalachian flat-footers put their own spin on the traditional musical style.
• In Europe, the Irish step dance trend has caught the imagination of cloggers. The style has grown increasingly popular, especially amongst kids, as the Irish-inspired Riverdance and Lord of the Dance theatrical stage productions have become successes. Most of the steps involve danced simultaneously with both the hands and legs creating a fluid and beautiful dance combining jigs, taps and stamps. Complex foot movements, jumps and leaps all blend together to create a mesmerizing, rhythmic blend of dance. This style has also spread to other countries such as Australia, where the Irishbased group Riverdance first held shows.

Overall, clogging is an enduring folk-style dance full of rhythm and life that people all over the world have embraced. The different styles of clog dance styles across the world are rooted in centuries of tradition, customs and culture, and each is a unique expression of the creativy and personality of its people. Whether it be a feisty Appalachian flat footing of the USA or the graceful uchimata of Japan, the dances bring joy and signify the values of the different nations that practice them.

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"How to Learn the Basics of Clog Dancing"

Clog dancing can be a fun and rewarding way to get some exercise, but the basics can sometimes seem like an uphill battle. If you’re looking to get into clog dancing but have no idea where to start, there are a few simple steps you can take to get started in the basics.

1. The first thing you should focus on when learning the basics of clog dancing is your footwork. Start by working on simple movements and patterns with your feet, such as heel-toe, shuffles, and heel clicks. Watching videos or taking classes can be helpful in getting a better understanding of the movements. You should also practice keeping your feet close together, tightening your ankles, and staying on the balls of your feet.
2. The next thing you should practice is the timing of your steps. It can take some time to learn the correct timing, but it is essential for clogging. Make sure to listen to the music and try to move with it. The tempo and beat can vary from one piece of music to another, so be sure to pay attention and practice your step timings accordingly.

With some time and practice, you should be able to master the basics of clog dancing. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes and have some fun. With patience and persistence, you can learn the fundamentals of clog dancing and progress to more complex moves and steps in the future. Good luck!