Ragtime

Definition

A style of dance music which became popular at the end of the 19th century and which helped to influence jazz.

It features a strongly syncopated melody (meaning the notes don’t always fall on the beat) against a steady, simple accompaniment played as a vamp, often played on piano, e.g. Scott Joplin rags.

Examples

The 'Maple Leaf Rag' uses arpeggios and syncopation.

Ragtime is not exclusively played on the piano.

See a ragtime piano duet here.

This video summarises key elements of the music whilst playing a ragtime excerpt in the background.

Related concepts

• Jazz (N3 & N3 Tech)
• Syncopation (N4 & N4 Tech)