Definition

Proper noun A person's name, specifically referring to an influential American composer and pianist. He is historically recognized as a pivotal figure in the development and popularization of ragtime music, a genre characterized by its syncopated, or "ragged," rhythm. A key aspect of his legacy is his role in formally documenting and publishing compositions within this style.

Examples of Usage

• Scott Joplin is often called the "King of Ragtime."
• We studied the life and works of Scott Joplin in music history class.
• The most famous composition by Scott Joplin is "The Entertainer."

Advanced Usage

• The term can be used attributively to describe things related to his life, work, or style.
  • The pianist delivered a brilliant Scott Joplin interpretation.
  • The festival featured a Scott Joplin tribute concert.

Variants and Related Words

• Joplinesque (adj): Resembling or in the style of Scott Joplin's music.
  • The piece had a distinctly Joplinesque syncopation.
• Ragtime (n): The musical genre with which Scott Joplin is most closely associated.

Synonyms

• The King of Ragtime (an epithet)
• Ragtime composer

Related Idioms and Phrases

• "To have a case of the Scott Joplins": This is a very rare, humorous, and non-standard play on words, implying a situation filled with lively, syncopated energy or slight, pleasant chaos, inspired by his music's character. It is not a common idiom.
  • After three cups of coffee, I've got a real case of the Scott Joplins this morning.

Noun

1. United States composer who was the first creator of ragtime to write down his compositions (1868-1917)