That American Rag: The Story of Ragtime from Coast to Coast
The joyous syncopation of ragtime is the perfect cultural symbol of our sassy nation jubilantly entering the new century 100 years ago. Although some may regard it as simply one more step on the road that led to jazz, the music has endured. At its best, ragtime is an example of America's strengthsAthe inherent optimism, the mingling of diverse cultures, and the democracy of its very appeal. Jansen and Jones cover the period from the first published rag in 1897 to 1980, when ragtime's emphasis shifted from printed music to recordings, but the greatest coverage is given to the first 20 yearsAleading up to the birth of jazz. The publishers, composers, and rags from six regions of the country are featured, and four appendixes list the composers' place of birth, their pseudonyms and stage names, ragtime publication by state, and a checklist of over 2000 rags. While this is not an essential purchase for most public libraries, it would be a welcome addition to any music collection.ADan Bogey, Clearfield Cty. P.L. Federation, Curwensville, PACopyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.