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Ragtime

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Saved by PBworks
on August 9, 2006 at 4:56:26 pm
 

Ragtime

 

Ragtime became popular during the early 20th century, around 1900-1918. It originated in African American musical communities. This type of musical genre is a dance form written in 2/4 or 4/4 time, with bass notes played on the odd-numbered beats and chords played on the even-numbered beats.

 

Although the origin of the word ragtime is unknown, many believe that it originated from the words 'ragged time' refering to the characteristic syncopations which 'tear up' the then normal accentuations of previous popular music.

Another belief is that these words are associated with the walking bass set against the melodic line. Yet another belief is that since the ragtime was dance music, then dancers would have to roll up the rug or 'rag' to use the hard floor in order to dance in this particular fashion.

The last theory, my favorite, is that the ragtime was the type of music that one would fine in saloon bars where the prostitutes were not available, because they were 'on the rag.' Thus the name 'rag' time.

 

Ragtime is a distinctly American musical style. It may be considered a synthesis of African-American syncopation and European classical music.

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