Ragtime music is a uniquely American musical phenomenon that enjoyed a lot of popularity towards the end of the 19th century and into the first two decades of the 20th century. This style has its origins in African-American communities this style is defined by syncopated melodies over a marching beat as the accented note in a measure falls between the main beats. Needless to say, that this leads to a unique and complex offset sound that excites the listeners.
Ragtime is the predecessor of jazz in the US before 1920. Back then, it was extensively used in entertainment and movies thanks to its energetic sounds that can perfectly blend with all types of images. It is mainly known as the extension that came to life from the European classical music and the African syncopation. And, its most famous pioneer is Scott Joplin also known as the “King of Ragtime”.
Ragtime piano music was firstly criticized by a lot of people, especially classical musicians, at that time and it was thought to be a “poor playing. However, it soon gained a lot of popularity because no own can resist its dynamic notes and energetic melodies. The ragtime music style was first played using string instruments like guitars or banjos. Yet, after it was no longer criticized but rather be seen as an innovative playing, it was published as piano music.
Ragtime piano music
Ragtime piano music is a complex phenomenon that only music masters can play. Imagine playing the piano? Is it difficult? Now imagine playing the piano while each of your hands plays something different. Impossible, right? The left hand playing the piano represents the rhythm section of the melody playing a succession of base notes and chords.
Do you feel like dancing when listening to ragtime? You most likely do because that’s its purpose. The sounds of ragtime are so dynamic and energetic because they are supposed to keep you on a high note and make you want to dance.
Needless to say, the ragtime music style played a major role in influencing modern music. Its powerful rhythms and energetic syncopations can still be recognized in some of today’s melodies. The main genre influenced by ragtime is jazz which’s foundation is, in fact, ragtime and its dynamic piano notes and succession of sounds.
Even today, ragtime music can have a powerful impact when used as background music to keep the audience invested. You can still hear it in tv shows, movies, cartoons, even talk shows, or any other type of entertainment in the online such as explainer videos or animations.
Although it has joined the music scene more than a century ago, ragtime music isn’t expected to become unpopular any time soon simply because it makes your heart and body want to dance. Whether you want to learn more about this music style or want to create an entertaining online video and need energetic background music, you can choose from a wide selection of melodies and buy ragtime piano music.