Scott Joplin
1868- 1917

Scott Joplin was born on November 24, 1868, in Texarkana, Texas, USA. From a very young age, Scott showed a deep love for music. His family didn't have much money, but that didn't stop him from following his dreams and becoming a musician and composer.

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When Scott was about seven years old, he started playing the piano. At first, he couldn't afford formal lessons, so he taught himself by improvising on the piano when his mother cleaned houses and by watching others play. His talent quickly became apparent, and people in his town noticed his gift for making beautiful music

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As Scott grew older, he faced many challenges, but he never gave up on his dreams. He left home to study music and improve his piano skills. Over the years, he traveled to different cities, learning and playing different styles of music

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Scott Joplin is often called "The King of Ragtime." Ragtime is a lively and syncopated style of music that was popular in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Scott's most famous composition is "Maple Leaf Rag," a piece that made him famous all over the country.

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In 1899, Scott Joplin wrote "The Maple Leaf Rag," a lively and catchy tune that became a huge hit. This ragtime masterpiece brought him widespread recognition and even made its way into homes across America. People loved its playful rhythm and energetic melody.

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Scott Joplin's music continues to be celebrated and enjoyed by people around the world. Even though he faced challenges during his lifetime, his determination and passion for music made him a pioneer in the world of ragtime. Scott Joplin's legacy lives on, inspiring generations of musicians and bringing joy to those who love music.

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Here are some video biographies of Scott Joplin and examples of his music.