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Scott Joplin was a prominent American composer and pianist known for his contributions to the genre of ragtime music, and "Paragon Rag" is one of his notable compositions. Here are some interesting facts about Scott Joplin and "Paragon Rag":

1. Composer Extraordinaire: Scott Joplin was born in Texarkana, Texas, around 1867, and he became one of the most famous and influential ragtime composers in history. His compositions are characterized by their syncopated rhythms and catchy melodies.

2. Paragon Rag: "Paragon Rag" is one of Joplin's well-known compositions. It was published in 1909, towards the end of the ragtime era's peak popularity.

3. Named After a Theater: The rag was named after the Paragon Theatre in Chicago, where Joplin's publisher, John Stark, had his office. Joplin wrote several rags that were named after theaters and venues as a form of advertisement.

4. Intermediate Difficulty: "Paragon Rag" is considered to have intermediate difficulty, making it accessible to both amateur and professional pianists. Its lively tempo and catchy melodies make it a favorite among ragtime enthusiasts.

5. Unique Style: Joplin's compositions often incorporated classical music elements, which set him apart from other ragtime composers of his time. This classical influence is evident in "Paragon Rag," which features more complex harmonies and variations than some of his earlier works.

6. Ragtime Revival: While ragtime music experienced a decline in popularity in the early 20th century, there was a revival of interest in the genre in the 1970s, partly due to the success of the movie "The Sting," which featured Joplin's "The Entertainer" as its theme song. This revival renewed interest in Joplin's works, including "Paragon Rag."

7. Ragtime Preservation: Scott Joplin's contributions to ragtime music have led to a renewed appreciation for the genre's historical significance. Many musicians and music historians work to preserve and perform his compositions to this day.

8. Posthumous Recognition: Although Joplin's ragtime music was popular during his lifetime, he did not receive the full recognition and financial success he deserved. After his death in 1917, his music gained even greater recognition, and he is now celebrated as one of America's most important composers.

9. Legacy: Scott Joplin's work has had a lasting impact on American music. His compositions, including "Paragon Rag," continue to be performed by pianists and ensembles around the world, ensuring that the legacy of ragtime lives on.

"Paragon Rag" is just one example of Scott Joplin's enduring contributions to the world of music, and it remains a beloved piece in the ragtime repertoire.