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Scott Joplin was an influential American composer and pianist who is best known for his contributions to the development of ragtime music, a style that combined African rhythms with European musical forms. Here are some interesting facts about him:

1. King of Ragtime: Scott Joplin is often referred to as the "King of Ragtime." Ragtime was a popular genre of music during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, characterized by its syncopated rhythms and lively melodies.

2. "The Entertainer": One of Joplin's most famous compositions is "The Entertainer," which he published in 1902. It became widely recognized due to its use in the 1973 movie "The Sting," starring Paul Newman and Robert Redford.

3. "Maple Leaf Rag": Another one of Joplin's iconic pieces is the "Maple Leaf Rag," which he composed in 1899. It was one of the first ragtime compositions to achieve mainstream success and remains one of his most enduring works.

4. Classical Ambitions: Joplin had ambitions to elevate ragtime to a more respected art form. He composed a ragtime opera titled "Treemonisha," which he considered his most significant work. Although the opera was not widely recognized during his lifetime, it is now regarded as a significant achievement in American musical history.

5. Musical Education: Joplin's musical talents were nurtured from a young age. He received formal training in music and learned to play the piano as a child. His education laid the foundation for his later compositions.

6. Scott Joplin's School of Piano Playing: In 1901, Joplin published a instructional manual titled "School of Ragtime: Six Exercises for Piano." This demonstrated his commitment to teaching and preserving the ragtime style.

7. Legacy: Joplin's contributions to music have had a lasting impact. He bridged the gap between African American musical traditions and mainstream music, paving the way for future African American composers and musicians.

8. Struggles and Recognition: Despite his talent and contributions, Joplin faced financial struggles throughout his life. He dealt with the challenges of racial prejudice and the difficulties of making a living as a musician. However, he gained recognition in his later years, and his music has been celebrated for its historical and cultural significance.

9. Posthumous Honors: Joplin was posthumously awarded the Pulitzer Prize in 1976 for his contribution to American music. This recognition helped solidify his status as a pioneering composer.

10. Tragic End: Scott Joplin's life ended tragically. He suffered from syphilis, a sexually transmitted disease, and spent the last years of his life in a mental institution. He passed away on April 1, 1917, at the age of 49.

Scott Joplin's enduring compositions continue to be celebrated and studied, and his legacy remains an important part of American musical history.