Piano Works by Joplin: Cheerful Masterpieces by the King of Ragtime
Scott Joplin, the “King of Ragtime,” was born in the United States as the child of enslaved African Americans and adored ragtime—Black music distinguished by its syncopated rhythms.
Known as a composer who pursued music that blended elements of Western classical and Black musical traditions, Joplin created works with light, buoyant rhythms and a cheerful character.
These pieces are beloved not only by classical performers and music lovers but also across many genres, and they are widely familiar as music that brightens films and television programs.
In this article, we’ve gathered Joplin’s most popular piano works.
Enjoy these pieces that will make you want to tap along to the beat!
[Joplin's Piano Pieces] Cheerful Masterpieces by the King of Ragtime (1–10)
The Easy WinnersScott Joplin
Scott Joplin, who was born the child of enslaved parents in Texas, blossomed into a master of ragtime.
His ragtime works, blending elements of classical music with syncopated rhythms, continue to captivate listeners today.
One of his signature pieces, The Easy Winners (composed in 1901), is a lively, upbeat tune depicting athletes who win with ease.
Its distinctive trio section features striking chromatic inner voices that evoke anticipation and joy in the listener.
The rhythm of ragtime can be a bit challenging if you’re unfamiliar with it, but once you master it, it’s guaranteed to make you want to move! Highly recommended for fans of jazz and ragtime, and for anyone looking to bring a unique flair to a recital.
Maple Leaf RagScott Joplin
Composed by Scott Joplin in 1899, the ragtime masterpiece “Maple Leaf Rag” became Joplin’s first major hit and greatly contributed to establishing the ragtime genre.
Characterized by syncopation and four main themes, the piece sold as many as 500,000 copies of sheet music in the ten years following its release, becoming widely recognized as one of his signature works.
The lyrics added later portray a confident man who captivates people with his dancing and charm, conveying energy and fun to listeners.
Beloved by performers across genres and featured in films and video games, this dynamic classic is one you should definitely try playing on the piano.
Pineapple RagScott Joplin
Scott Joplin is known for his style that skillfully incorporates ragtime rhythms.
Among the pieces that most vividly reflect his distinctive approach, the 1908 work “Pineapple Rag” is a popular piece that conveys the fun of dance music from that era.
Its charm lies in a lively, sparkling atmosphere that lets you imagine couples dancing to its light, rhythmic melodies.
With Joplin’s signature arranging, it’s a highly recommended piece for anyone who wants to enjoy the piano!
EntertainerScott Joplin
The Entertainer is a piano piece published in 1902 by American composer Scott Joplin.
It is a ragtime work—a genre that emerged in the late 19th century—characterized by strongly forward-driving, syncopated rhythms influenced by African American music.
Used as the theme for the 1973 Academy Award–winning film The Sting, it helped spark a renewed interest in ragtime in the 1970s.
While the left-hand technique known as stride can be fairly challenging, give it a try!
Sugar CaneScott Joplin
Scott Joplin was a composer active in the United States from the late 19th to the early 20th century.
One of his signature works, Sugar Cane, is a ragtime piano piece published in 1908.
Its characteristic ragtime syncopation creates a humorous atmosphere and vibrant energy throughout.
The melody, which lifts the listener’s spirits, is full of Joplin’s unique charm.
It’s a piece I recommend to anyone who enjoys playing the piano!
Besena (Concert Waltz)Scott Joplin
The waltz Bethena, composed in 1905 by Scott Joplin, the composer known as the “King of Ragtime.” Among Joplin’s waltzes—renowned for their distinctive style that fuses ragtime’s lively rhythms with the classical elements of Western music—this piece is one of the most popular masterpieces.
Colored by a triple meter, its melody makes striking use of syncopation, and its contrapuntal development, where two melodic lines intertwine, is also captivating.
Featured in film soundtracks, this work is a perfect choice for those who want to savor beautiful harmonies set to a waltz rhythm.
SolarisScott Joplin
Solace, subtitled “A Mexican Serenade,” by Scott Joplin is a piece with a distinctive atmosphere that sets it apart from standard ragtime.
Its relaxed tempo, incorporating habanera and tango rhythms, imparts a quiet, introspective character.
The work appears to reflect Joplin’s personal feelings around 1909, when he was newly married, and it reveals his pursuit of more refined expression in his creative endeavors.
It remains a classic that continues to captivate many, having been used in film soundtracks and video games.
It’s highly recommended not only for listeners interested in classical music, but also for anyone seeking a piece with a slightly different mood.