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!