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

1. Birth and Early Life: Scott Joplin was born between 1867 and 1868 in Texarkana, Texas, although the exact date of his birth remains uncertain due to limited historical records.

2. Musical Prodigy: Joplin showed an early aptitude for music and reportedly learned to play the piano at a very young age. He received formal music training from various teachers throughout his youth.

3. Pioneering Ragtime: Joplin is considered one of the pioneers of ragtime music, a genre characterized by its syncopated rhythms and catchy melodies. His compositions helped popularize ragtime in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

4. "Maple Leaf Rag": Joplin's most famous composition is "Maple Leaf Rag," which he composed in 1899. It became a huge hit and is still widely recognized as one of the quintessential ragtime pieces.

5. Publishing Success: In 1902, Joplin self-published "Maple Leaf Rag" through his own publishing company, Stark Music Co. The sheet music sold more than a million copies during his lifetime, making him a wealthy composer.

6. Educational Ambitions: Joplin had a vision for ragtime as an art form and believed it could be elevated to the status of classical music. He even wrote an opera titled "Treemonisha" in 1911, which he hoped would contribute to this goal.

7. "The Entertainer": Another iconic Joplin composition is "The Entertainer," written in 1902. This piece gained renewed popularity in the 1970s when it was used as the theme music for the movie "The Sting."

8. Tragic Personal Life: Joplin faced many personal challenges, including financial struggles and health issues. He died on April 1, 1917, at the age of 48 from complications related to syphilis.

9. Posthumous Recognition: While Joplin's music experienced a decline in popularity after his death, there was a resurgence of interest in ragtime and his work during the 1970s. He was posthumously awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Music in 1976 for his contributions to American music.

10. Legacy: Scott Joplin's legacy lives on through his compositions, which continue to be performed and enjoyed worldwide. He is remembered not only for his musical talent but also for his significant role in shaping the history of American music.

Scott Joplin's music continues to be celebrated for its timeless appeal and its enduring influence on various music genres, including jazz and popular music.