Scott Joplin

Born in 1868 (exact date is not known), probably in northeastern Texas

Died April 1, 1917

Nationality: American

Style: Ragtime

About the composer:

Scott Joplin was an African-American composer who gave us the most unique form of American music of all.  It came to be known as “ragtime” – because when people heard it they described the beat as “ragged.”  It’s a blend of European classical styles and African American harmony and rhythm.  Even as a very young boy Joplin showed a great talent for music. He played banjo and piano extremely well.  He performed dance music in clubs for many years, including the Maple Leaf Club in Sedalia, Missouri. It was while he worked there that he wrote his most famous piece of all, the “Maple Leaf Rag.”  That was only one of about 60 rags he wrote during his lifetime. Another one, which became popular in the 1970’s, was “The Entertainer.” This one was used in the movie “Sting.” (There were several other Joplin rags in the movie, also.) Joplin also spent many years in St. Louis, Missouri, and made his new style of music very popular there.

About the music:

Scott Joplin’s music is written down and meant to be played note for note, just the way he wrote it.  In that way it’s very different from jazz, which encourages players to improvise (make up the music as they go).  Ragtime did pave the way for jazz, though. The rhythm in ragtime music is syncopated and very complex. Some rags are fast and lively, others are slow and relaxed.

Suggested activities:       

Read the fascinating story of Scott Joplin and learn more about this important American composer.

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