1. "Maple Leaf Rag" (1899)
- Joplin's most famous composition, "Maple Leaf Rag" is widely considered to be the father of ragtime.
- This virtuosic piano piece is characterized by its syncopated rhythms, lively melodies, and left-hand ragtime bass patterns.
2. "The Entertainer" (1902)
- Best known as the theme music of the 1973 movie "The Sting," "The Entertainer" is another classic Joplin ragtime piece.
- It is an uptempo, energetic composition that captures the lively atmosphere of early 20th-century America.
3. "Elite Syncopations" (1902)
- A more sophisticated and complex ragtime piece compared to "Maple Leaf Rag" and "The Entertainer."
- "Elite Syncopations" displays Joplin's exceptional piano technique and his ability to create intricate syncopated rhythms.
4. "Peacherine Rag" (1901)
- A lively and graceful ragtime composition that showcases Joplin's melodic invention.
- The piece is known for its catchy refrain and its use of a habanera rhythm in the B section.
5. "Fig Leaf Rag" (1908)
- Considered one of Joplin's later works, "Fig Leaf Rag" is characterized by its relaxed tempo and more lyrical melodies compared to his earlier rags.
- It features a beautiful and memorable melodic theme and demonstrates Joplin's growth as a composer.
These five compositions are just a few examples of Scott Joplin's brilliant contributions to the genre of ragtime, each showcasing his unique style, syncopated rhythms, and melodic genius.