We have a collection of 44 arrangements for Scott Joplin - The Entertainer
What iconic ragtime piece became a global sensation after its use in the 1973 film "The Sting"? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover Scott Joplin: The King of Ragtime
Scott Joplin was an influential American composer and pianist, primarily known for his contributions to ragtime music, and he composed a number of famous pieces. Here are some interesting facts about Scott Joplin, the entertainer:
Ragtime Pioneer: Scott Joplin is often referred to as the "King of Ragtime." He played a crucial role in popularizing ragtime music, which was a precursor to jazz and an essential part of American music history.
"The Entertainer": Joplin's most famous composition is "The Entertainer," which was originally written in 1902 as a piano rag. It gained renewed popularity in the 1970s when it was used as the theme music for the film "The Sting," starring Paul Newman and Robert Redford.
Treemonisha: Joplin also composed an opera called "Treemonisha," which was one of his most significant works. It addressed themes of education and upliftment in the African American community and was a departure from his more typical ragtime compositions.
Educated Musician: Scott Joplin was a classically trained musician. He studied music at the George R. Smith College in Sedalia, Missouri, and later with a German music teacher, Julius Weiss. This formal training contributed to his ability to compose intricate and innovative ragtime music.
Pioneering Sheet Music: Joplin was one of the first African American composers to have his music published as sheet music, which allowed it to reach a broader audience. His compositions, including "Maple Leaf Rag" and "The Entertainer," became immensely popular and helped define the ragtime genre.
Maple Leaf Rag: Joplin's "Maple Leaf Rag" is considered one of the most important and influential compositions in the history of ragtime music. It sold over one million copies, making it one of the best-selling piano rags in history.
Publishing Company: Scott Joplin founded his own music publishing company called the "Scott Joplin Music Company" to publish and promote his compositions. He aimed to protect his work and earn a fair share of the profits.
Tragic End: Joplin's life was marked by struggle and hardship. He died of syphilis at the age of 48 in 1917 in a mental institution in New York City, where he had been living in poverty.
Posthumous Recognition: While Joplin struggled during his lifetime, his music saw a resurgence in popularity during the 1970s, thanks to its use in the film "The Sting." He was posthumously awarded a Pulitzer Prize in 1976 for his contributions to American music.
Legacy: Scott Joplin's influence on American music cannot be overstated. His compositions continue to be performed and studied, and his work played a vital role in shaping the development of jazz and popular music in the United States.
Scott Joplin's contributions to music, particularly ragtime, continue to be celebrated and remembered today for their lasting impact on American musical history.