Scott Joplin Ragtime Festival 2023

Sedalia, Missouri – June 1, 2023

The rhythmic and toe-tapping melodies of ragtime are set to reverberate through the streets of Sedalia once again as the highly anticipated Scott Joplin Ragtime Festival returns. Scheduled to take place from May 31st to June 3rd, this year’s festival promises an unforgettable celebration of the iconic American music genre and pays homage to the legendary composer and pianist, Scott Joplin.

As the birthplace of ragtime music, Sedalia is the perfect backdrop for this world-renowned festival. Music enthusiasts and performers from around the globe are expected to converge on the charming town, eager to revel in the rich history and infectious rhythms that define ragtime.

As the birthplace of ragtime music, Sedalia is the perfect backdrop for this world-renowned festival. Music enthusiasts and performers from around the globe are expected to converge on the charming town, eager to revel in the rich history and infectious rhythms that define ragtime.

Scott Joplin (1867-1917) was an American composer and pianist, widely regarded as the “King of Ragtime.” He was born in Texarkana, Texas, and demonstrated musical talent from an early age. Joplin’s compositions were influenced by African rhythms, European classical music, and the syncopated sounds of ragtime, which was a popular musical genre during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Joplin’s most famous and influential work is his “Maple Leaf Rag,” published in 1899. It became one of the most successful ragtime compositions and helped popularize the genre. Joplin went on to compose numerous other rags, waltzes, marches, and other forms of music.

Beyond his compositions, Joplin made significant contributions to the development and recognition of ragtime as an art form. He sought to elevate ragtime from its status as primarily dance music to a more serious and sophisticated genre. In 1907, he published a book called “School of Ragtime,” which served as a guide to mastering the style.

Despite his talent and contributions, Joplin faced many challenges during his life. He experienced financial difficulties and struggled to earn a living solely through his music. Joplin’s ambitions to create larger-scale operas were met with limited success and were often hindered by financial constraints and racial discrimination.

Unfortunately, Joplin’s life was cut short by illness, and he passed away at the age of 49 in 1917. His contributions to ragtime music and his enduring compositions continue to be celebrated and enjoyed, leaving a lasting legacy in American music history.