2.1 Ragtime: style, structure, and key figures

Ragtime revolutionized American music with its syncopated rhythms and infectious energy. Born in the late 19th century, it blended African American musical traditions with European classical forms, creating a unique sound that captivated audiences across racial lines.

Scott Joplin, the "King of Ragtime," led a wave of composers who defined the genre. Their complex piano pieces, like "Maple Leaf Rag," featured syncopated melodies over steady bass lines, influencing future jazz and popular music styles for decades to come.

Musical Characteristics and Historical Context of Ragtime

Musical characteristics of ragtime

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• Syncopated melody emphasized off-beats creating "ragged" rhythmic feel (Blue Rondo à la Turk)
• Steady, march-like bass line alternated bass notes and chords providing rhythmic foundation
• Multi-strain form typically AABBACCDD structure with 16-bar sections shaped compositions
• Harmonic elements utilized secondary dominants and frequent modulations adding complexity
• Moderate, steady tempo maintained throughout pieces enhancing danceable quality
• Instrumental focus primarily composed for piano showcasing virtuosic performances (The Entertainer)

Key ragtime composers

• Scott Joplin, "King of Ragtime," composed "Maple Leaf Rag" (1899) and published "School of Ragtime" (1908)
• James Scott created "Frog Legs Rag" (1906) contributing to ragtime's popularity
• Joseph Lamb wrote "Sensation Rag" (1908) as one of the few white ragtime composers
• Tom Turpin composed "Harlem Rag" (1897) considered first published rag by an African American
• Eubie Blake penned "Charleston Rag" (1899) later becoming influential in early jazz

Social context of ragtime

• Emerged late 19th to early 20th century primarily in Midwest United States (St. Louis, New Orleans)
• Reflected racial dynamics as African American musical tradition gained popularity among white audiences
• Performed in various venues including saloons, brothels, and vaudeville shows
• Publishing industry boosted ragtime's reach through sheet music sales and player piano rolls
• World's fairs (1893 Chicago, 1904 St. Louis) introduced ragtime to wider audiences

Ragtime vs related styles

• Classic ragtime emphasized formal structure and composition over improvisation (Maple Leaf Rag)
• Cakewalk, a precursor, associated with dance and featured more march-like rhythm
• Stride piano evolved from ragtime, alternating bass notes and chords over wider range with more improvisation
• Novelty piano, influenced by ragtime, incorporated more complex harmonies and faster tempos (Kitten on the Keys)