Overview
Sandoval and Richardson explore three main facets of their artistic work with Music from the Sole. They discuss tap dance history that combines African-American and Irish culture into an expressive Black art form. Then, they detail how everyone is a musician and has a voice within their improvisational composition process, prioritizing tap sounds integrated with other choreography and music. Sandoval and Richardson end by advocating for Black leadership and representation within the arts.
Video 1: Music From The Sole Interview
Artist Bios
Fusing Brazilian music and rhythms with body percussion and tap traditions, Music from the Sole is led by tap dancer Leonardo Sandoval (named one of “25 to Watch” in 2021 by Dance Magazine) and multi-instrumentalist and composer Gregory Richardson. The ensemble celebrates tap’s roots in the African diaspora. It combines the choreographic and musical influences from Sandoval’s native Brazil with Richardson’s talent blending funk, house, jazz, rock, and Afro-Cuban music.
