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Scott Joplin was a highly influential and pioneering American musician known for his contributions to ragtime music. Here are some interesting facts about him:

1. King of Ragtime: Scott Joplin is often referred to as the "King of Ragtime." Ragtime is a genre of music that emerged in the late 19th century, characterized by its syncopated rhythms and catchy melodies.

2. Maple Leaf Rag: Joplin's most famous composition is the "Maple Leaf Rag," which was published in 1899. This piece became a huge hit and is still widely recognized as one of the most iconic ragtime compositions.

3. Composer and Pianist: Joplin was not just a pianist but also a prolific composer. He wrote many ragtime compositions during his lifetime, contributing significantly to the popularization of this musical style.

4. Educational Background: Joplin had a formal musical education. He studied music at the George R. Smith College for Negroes, which was a rare opportunity for a young African American in the late 19th century.

5. Opera Aspirations: Joplin was also interested in opera composition. His most famous opera, "Treemonisha," is considered an important work in African American musical history. Unfortunately, it was not widely recognized during his lifetime.

6. Strenuous Efforts to Promote Ragtime: Joplin made significant efforts to have ragtime recognized as a serious art form. He wrote articles, gave lectures, and even penned the "School of Ragtime" to teach the style to others.

7. Scott Joplin and the Red Back Book: In 1901, he published "The Entertainer," which was later included in his "Red Back Book." This piece enjoyed a resurgence in popularity in the 1970s when it was used as the theme for the movie "The Sting."

8. Personal Life: Joplin was known for being a reserved and serious man. He was deeply committed to his music and was dedicated to raising the status of ragtime.

9. Tragic End: Scott Joplin died in 1917 at the age of 49. He spent his final years struggling with syphilis, which ultimately led to his demise. He was buried in a pauper's grave, and it wasn't until decades later that he received greater recognition and respect for his contributions to music.

10. Legacy: Scott Joplin's work had a profound impact on American music. He is regarded as one of the most important figures in the development of ragtime, and his compositions continue to be celebrated and performed to this day. In 1976, he was posthumously awarded a Pulitzer Prize for his contributions to American music.

Scott Joplin's music has left an enduring mark on the history of American music and continues to be enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds. His contributions to ragtime are still celebrated and studied in music education and performance.