The Entertainer

Definition

The Entertainer is a classic ragtime piano composition written by Scott Joplin in 1902, which became emblematic of the ragtime genre and is recognized for its catchy melody and syncopated rhythms. The piece highlights the style and structure characteristic of ragtime music, making it a significant work that represents the cultural atmosphere of early 20th century America, where music was a vital form of entertainment.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Entertainer was originally published as a piano piece and later gained immense popularity through its arrangement for various instruments and orchestras.
2. The composition features a distinctive AABBACCDD structure, showcasing the common form used in ragtime music that contributes to its catchy appeal.
3. In addition to its musical significance, The Entertainer has been featured in popular culture, notably in the film 'The Sting,' which helped revive interest in ragtime during the 1970s.
4. Scott Joplin's work, including The Entertainer, reflects the blending of African American musical traditions with European classical influences, highlighting the diverse roots of American music.
5. The Entertainer continues to be a popular piece for piano students and performers alike, representing an accessible entry point into the world of ragtime music.

Review Questions

• How does The Entertainer exemplify the characteristics of ragtime music through its composition?
  • The Entertainer embodies key elements of ragtime music with its syncopated rhythms and catchy melody. It utilizes an AABBACCDD form, which is typical of ragtime structure, allowing for a playful yet structured listening experience. The piece's lively tempo and intricate rhythmic patterns demonstrate how ragtime composers like Scott Joplin blended African American musical traditions with classical influences to create a unique sound.
• Discuss the impact of Scott Joplin on the ragtime genre and how The Entertainer contributed to his legacy.
  • Scott Joplin's contributions to ragtime were monumental, particularly with pieces like The Entertainer which showcased his mastery of syncopation and melody. His work not only popularized ragtime but also elevated it to a respected art form, paving the way for future composers. The widespread appeal and enduring legacy of The Entertainer cemented Joplin's status as a leading figure in American music history.
• Evaluate the cultural significance of The Entertainer in relation to early 20th-century American society and its reflection on entertainment during that period.
  • The Entertainer holds cultural significance as it reflects the evolving landscape of entertainment in early 20th-century America. During this time, ragtime became a dominant musical form that appealed to diverse audiences across racial and social lines. By capturing the spirit of lively entertainment, The Entertainer served as both a mirror to societal changes and a catalyst for further developments in American music, influencing jazz and other genres that followed.

Related terms

Ragtime: A musical genre that originated in the late 19th century, characterized by its syncopated rhythms and lively melodies, 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 with his compositions.

Syncopation: A musical technique involving the accentuation of off-beats or weak beats, creating a sense of rhythm that is essential to the feel of ragtime music.