- Jun 24, 2003
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Yesterday was Scott Joplin's 153rd birthday. The "King of Ragtime" composed over 40 piano rags, a ballet, and 2 operas. He died at 48, pretty much penniless and forgotten. His work was rediscovered in the early 70s. Marvin Hamlisch orchestrated his music for The Sting, and won the Oscar in 1974 for best adapted score. Hamlisch's version of "The Entertainer" rag reached #3 in the Billboard Top 40. Joplin was awarded a special Pulitzer Prize in 1976 for his contributions to American music. Personally, I'd rank him among the top 10 American composers of all time. A few of his piano rags I really like:
The Favorite is a typical upbeat rag with 4 repeated themes. The last theme, at about 2:58 has a jumping melody that's very cool.
Bethena is a slower piece in waltz time. The 4th theme, at 2:52, is worthy of Chopin.
Solace--A Mexican Serenade, also has a slower tempo. Though it's more tango than Mexican. The themes are soothing, and very pretty. Joplin had a tremendous gift for melody.
The Favorite is a typical upbeat rag with 4 repeated themes. The last theme, at about 2:58 has a jumping melody that's very cool.
Bethena is a slower piece in waltz time. The 4th theme, at 2:52, is worthy of Chopin.
Solace--A Mexican Serenade, also has a slower tempo. Though it's more tango than Mexican. The themes are soothing, and very pretty. Joplin had a tremendous gift for melody.
