DESCRIPTIVE LEVELS TO GUIDE YOU IN DECIDING THE LEVEL OF ROUTINES
By Steve Smith, CCI
There are two factors to consider when labeling the LEVEL of your routine.
- Speed of the music.
- Difficulty of the steps.
Of the two factors, by far the most important one is step difficulty.
We have broken down step levels this year into the following categories. It is VERY IMPORTANT that you read these carefully and label your routines by these standards and descriptions.
Basic
Self explanatory, Includes basic movements of Double Toes, Drag-slides, Kicks, Double Steps
and Basic steps.
Basic Plus
Includes simple combinations of basic clogging movements. Clogovers, Rocking chairs,
Charlestons, and steps of similar complexity. This is a level just beyond BEGINNER – Keep it
Simple!
Easy Intermediate
This level again includes “clogging” movements only. Steps such as Samantha, High Horse, Ida
Red, and other similar steps are workable but only IF the music is not too fast. Creative steps
can be placed in this category but remember that this is an easy, recreational dance level. Buck
or Canadian steps are NOT included at this level.
Intermediate
The Intermediate level includes more demanding clogging steps, might accompany faster
music, or may have a more demanding sequence of clogging steps. Buck or Canadian steps
are NOT included at this level.
Intermediate Plus
What makes this level difficult is that it can also include some Buck style, Flatfoot, and
Canadian-style steps. These steps should be mixed with some less demanding clogging steps
for an easier flow. Restricting your choreography to strictly clogging steps can work if the
music, choreography, and steps are challenging.
Advanced
Steps here often included steps that are heavily influenced by Tap, Canadian Step Dancing, and
buck dancing. Steps at this level require great demanding technical Expertise.
Challenge
Anything goes! Hold on to your hat.
