The King of Ragtime Writers’ Masterpiece Turns 125

  • Scott Joplin’s ‘Maple Leaf Rag’ turns 125 years old
  • Joplin’s ragtime piece became an unexpected bestseller and enduring classic of American music
  • The influence of ‘Maple Leaf Rag’ on later rags and jazz
  • Ragtime as a vital root of jazz
  • Over 500 recordings by various artists across decades and musical styles

Published 125 years ago, Scott Joplin’s ‘Maple Leaf Rag’ became an unexpected bestseller and a testament to the composer’s melodic and rhythmic inventiveness. The piece showcases his originality, dynamic contrast, and propulsive rhythms, influencing later rags and jazz. With over 500 recordings by various artists across different styles, it remains an enduring classic of American music. Its adaptability and influence on the genre are evident in its numerous arrangements for diverse ensembles and its presence in popular culture.

Factuality Level: 8
Factuality Justification: The article provides a detailed account of Scott Joplin’s life, his composition ‘Maple Leaf Rag,’ its impact on the music industry, and its influence on various genres over time. It also includes information about other compositions by Joplin and how his work has been interpreted by different artists. The article is well-researched and informative, with no apparent bias or misleading information.
Noise Level: 3
Noise Justification: The article provides a detailed history and analysis of Scott Joplin’s ‘Maple Leaf Rag,’ its influence on music, and its lasting impact. It also offers insights into the challenges of playing the piece and its adaptability across various musical styles. However, it does not contain any irrelevant or misleading information, nor does it reinforce popular narratives without questioning them. The article is informative and provides actionable knowledge for those interested in learning to play the piece.
Private Companies: Maple Leaf Club,John Stark
Key People: Scott Joplin (Composer), W.C. Handy (Blues Pioneer), Eubie Blake (Pianist), Jelly Roll Morton (Pianist), James P. Johnson (Pianist), Johnny Guarnieri (Pianist), Sidney Bechet (Soprano Saxophonist), Turk Murphy (Jazz Band Leader), Reverend Gary Davis (Guitarist), Anthony Braxton (Jazz Musician), Muhal Richard Abrams (Jazz Musician), Mr. Hasse (Curator Emeritus of American Music at the Smithsonian)

Financial Relevance: No
Financial Markets Impacted: No
Financial Rating Justification: The article discusses the history and impact of Scott Joplin’s ‘Maple Leaf Rag,’ a piano composition from 125 years ago, its influence on ragtime music, and its lasting power in American culture. There are no financial topics mentioned or financial markets or companies impacted.
Presence Of Extreme Event: No
Nature Of Extreme Event: No
Impact Rating Of The Extreme Event: No
Extreme Rating Justification: The article discusses the historical significance and impact of Scott Joplin’s ‘Maple Leaf Rag,’ but it does not mention any extreme event that occurred in the last 48 hours.·
Move Size: No market move size mentioned.
Sector: No
Direction: Up
Magnitude: Small
Affected Instruments: Stocks

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