The Entertainer

Definition

The Entertainer is a classic ragtime composition by Scott Joplin, originally published in 1902. This piece epitomizes the style and essence of ragtime music, characterized by its syncopated rhythms and lively melodies. The composition reflects the social context of the early 20th century, showcasing how African American musicians were gaining recognition and contributing significantly to American music culture during this period.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Entertainer was one of the first ragtime pieces to achieve widespread popularity and is often associated with the revitalization of interest in ragtime music in the late 20th century due to its use in film and media.
2. Scott Joplin composed The Entertainer as a cakewalk, a dance form that was popular among African Americans at the time, which influenced the lively and upbeat character of the piece.
3. The composition features a distinct AABBACCDD structure, which is typical in ragtime compositions, allowing for varied melodies while maintaining rhythmic coherence.
4. The Entertainer highlights the importance of improvisation, as performers often add their personal flair to the piece, making each rendition unique.
5. This piece not only served as entertainment but also played a role in elevating ragtime from folk roots to a respected genre within mainstream music, paving the way for future jazz musicians.

Review Questions

• How does The Entertainer reflect the characteristics of ragtime music and its cultural significance during its time?
  • The Entertainer exemplifies key characteristics of ragtime music through its syncopated rhythms and catchy melodies. These elements capture the lively spirit of the early 20th century while reflecting the cultural environment where African American musicians were asserting their influence on American music. The piece's popularity showcases how ragtime was not just entertainment but also an important cultural expression during a time of social change.
• Discuss how Scott Joplin’s contributions to The Entertainer impacted the recognition of African American composers in mainstream music.
  • Scott Joplin's contributions to The Entertainer were pivotal in elevating African American composers in mainstream music. By blending classical elements with African American folk traditions in this composition, he challenged prevailing racial stereotypes and demonstrated the artistic depth of black musicians. His success paved the way for future generations of artists and helped shift public perception toward greater appreciation for diverse musical expressions.
• Evaluate the legacy of The Entertainer within the broader scope of American music history and its influence on subsequent genres such as jazz.
  • The Entertainer's legacy within American music history is significant as it marked a turning point for ragtime as an influential genre leading into jazz. Its rhythmic complexity and improvisational style laid foundational elements for jazz musicians who followed. By bridging folk traditions with popular culture, Joplin's work encouraged further exploration and innovation in musical genres, emphasizing how cross-cultural influences shape the evolution of music over time.

Related terms

Ragtime: A musical genre that emerged in the late 19th century, featuring syncopated rhythms and a lively tempo, often played on the piano.

Scott Joplin:

An influential African American composer and pianist known as the 'King of Ragtime,' who played a crucial role in popularizing ragtime music.

Syncopation:

A rhythmic concept in music that emphasizes off-beats or unexpected beats, creating a sense of surprise and complexity in the rhythm.