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Ragtime – Definition
Ragtime is an American piano style that combines highly syncopated melodies with a steady, march-like accompaniment. It flourished in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries and became an important precursor to jazz.
What is Ragtime?
Ragtime is built around the contrast between a regular left-hand accompaniment and a rhythmically displaced right-hand melody. Unlike swing music, ragtime is performed with straight eighth notes rather than a swung feel.
The style was popularized by composers such as Scott Joplin, whose works remain central to the piano repertoire.
How is Ragtime used in piano playing?
Ragtime develops hand independence, rhythmic precision, and coordination. The left hand typically alternates between bass notes and chords, while the right hand performs lively syncopated melodies.
Studying ragtime provides an excellent foundation for blues, stride piano, jazz, and many forms of modern rhythmic piano playing.