It's Ragtime.
When I was around 10 years old, I first heard The Entertainer by Scott Joplin. I was immediately hooked. Joplin was born in Texas around 1868 and is probably the most famous Ragtime composer of all time. There is something about Ragtime music, and that song in particular that has a way of grabbing my entire body and mind, and it doesn't let go until the last note has sounded. I own several Joplin CD's, and my favorite one that has 18 of his Rags doesn't seem to be available anymore. I just checked a few stores online. I am going to post a recording of The Entertainer on my blog today, but I am also posting a longer, lesser known Rag that is equally my favorite. The second Rag is called Bethena. It's a bit of a different style and has a mournful feel to it. It also has a memorable, haunting melody that I love. It was the first piece Joplin copyrighted after his wife died only 2 months after their wedding. I can definitely feel a sadness in it.
The Entertainer
Bethena
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