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Scott Joplin, often referred to as the "King of Ragtime," was a highly influential and pioneering African American composer and pianist known for his contributions to American music. Here are some interesting facts about Scott Joplin:

1. Birth and Early Life: Scott Joplin was born in Texarkana, Texas, around November 24, 1868 (his exact birthdate is uncertain), to a musical family. He learned to play the piano at a young age and showed remarkable talent.

2. Ragtime Pioneer: Joplin is credited with popularizing and refining ragtime music, a genre characterized by its syncopated rhythms and lively melodies. His compositions helped establish ragtime as a distinctive style of music in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

3. Maple Leaf Rag: One of Joplin's most famous compositions is the "Maple Leaf Rag," published in 1899. It became a massive hit and sold over one million copies of sheet music during Joplin's lifetime. It remains an iconic piece of ragtime music.

4. The Entertainer: Another well-known composition by Joplin is "The Entertainer," which was also a significant success. It gained renewed popularity in the 1970s when it was featured in the soundtrack of the film "The Sting," starring Paul Newman and Robert Redford.

5. Educational Contributions: Joplin believed in the educational value of ragtime music and wrote a manual titled "The School of Ragtime" in 1901. In it, he explained the principles of ragtime and provided instructional exercises for aspiring musicians.

6. Treemonisha: Scott Joplin composed an opera titled "Treemonisha" in 1910, which was an ambitious work blending elements of ragtime and opera. It told the story of a young African American woman who becomes a leader in her community. Although it was not widely performed during his lifetime, it is now recognized as an important work of American music.

7. Piano Rolls: Joplin made a series of piano rolls in the early 1900s, allowing people to hear his performances on player pianos. These rolls provide valuable insights into his playing style and interpretation of his own compositions.

8. Personal Struggles: Despite his musical talents and contributions, Joplin faced financial challenges and lived much of his life in relative obscurity. He struggled with poverty and health issues, including syphilis, which ultimately led to his death.

9. Recognition and Legacy: Scott Joplin's music experienced a resurgence of interest in the mid-20th century, with a growing appreciation for his contributions to American music. In 1976, he was posthumously awarded a Pulitzer Prize for his contributions to music.

10. Hall of Fame Induction: In 1976, Scott Joplin was posthumously inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, recognizing his enduring impact on American music and culture.

Scott Joplin's enduring legacy lies in his role as a pioneer of ragtime music and his contributions to the development of American musical traditions. His compositions continue to be celebrated and performed worldwide.