We have a collection of 44 arrangements for Scott Joplin - The Entertainer
What ragtime masterpiece became a surprise hit 70 years after its creation? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover Scott Joplin: The King of Ragtime
Scott Joplin was a remarkable figure in the history of music, particularly in the realm of ragtime. Here are some interesting facts about him:
Father of Ragtime: Scott Joplin is often referred to as the "King of Ragtime." Ragtime was a popular musical genre in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, characterized by its syncopated rhythms and lively melodies.
Pioneering Composer: Joplin was not only a talented pianist but also a prolific composer. He wrote some of the most famous ragtime compositions, including "The Maple Leaf Rag," which became a hit and sold over a million copies during his lifetime.
Opera Aspirations: Joplin had ambitions beyond ragtime. He composed an opera titled "Treemonisha," which was one of the first operas written by an African American composer. Unfortunately, the opera was never fully staged during his lifetime.
Musical Education: Despite facing racial challenges in his time, Joplin received formal musical training. He studied music theory and composition at George R. Smith College in Sedalia, Missouri.
Publishing Success: Joplin was savvy in the business side of music. He formed his own publishing company, Stark Music Company, which published many of his compositions. This allowed him to have greater control over his music and its distribution.
Legacy: Joplin's music gained a resurgence in popularity in the 1970s, partly due to the successful use of his compositions in the movie "The Sting" (1973). This renewed interest in ragtime also brought attention back to Joplin's work.
Posthumous Recognition: In 1976, Scott Joplin was posthumously awarded the Pulitzer Prize, more than 50 years after his death, in recognition of his significant contribution to American music.
Tragic End: Joplin's later life was marked by financial struggles and health issues, likely due to syphilis. He died in 1917 at the age of 49 in a mental institution in New York City.
Scott Joplin's contributions to music continue to be celebrated, and his compositions remain popular among musicians and music enthusiasts around the world.