Book Description

Explore the roots of ragtime with Francesco Leone's intermediate-level arrangement for Woodwind Quartet of 'Original Rags' by the legendary Scott Joplin. This collection provides a set of parts for five instruments: Flute, Oboe, B♭ Clarinet, and Bassoon, with a special inclusion of a B♭ Bass Clarinet part as an alternative to the Bassoon, offering ensemble flexibility and a fuller sound spectrum (please note: the comprehensive score is sold separately). Marking a significant moment in music history, 'Original Rags' was the very first of Scott Joplin’s compositions to be published, in early 1899, serving as a precursor to the iconic 'Maple Leaf Rag.' As Joplin's inaugural printed piece, it represents a foundational pillar of the ragtime genre, showcasing the rhythmic complexity and melodic inventiveness that would come to define his career. Accompanying this arrangement, you'll find informative pages available in a wide array of languages: English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese. This ensures that musicians and ragtime aficionados from around the globe can delve into the fascinating backstory and intricate details of 'Original Rags,' enriching their understanding and appreciation of this groundbreaking piece. Through Leone's arrangement, performers are invited to retrace the steps of ragtime's evolution, bringing a piece of musical history to life with each note.