The Nonpareil (Scott Joplin, 1907) [SJ38]

Details

Description

Scott Joplin - The Nonpareil (None To Equal)

Style: Ragtime Two Step
Year: 1907
Form: Intro A A B B C C D D
Keys: Bb/Bb/Eb/Eb

"The cover with Uncle Sam holding a flag would possibly indicate that this may be a patriotic march or fast two step. However, it is actually a very pleasant classic rag, and contains the expected Joplin note, "NOTICE: Do not play this piece fast. It is never right to play 'Ragtime' fast." Based on this and the French title, it is possible that publisher John Stark or his daughter named the piece, possibly even based on cover art availability. However, Joplin may have also had a say in the name, since there were various bars and performance venues named Nonpareil present in some of the locations where the composer lived. The A section is well constructed but unremarkable. The B section displays some experimentation with variations on the ragtime format, utilizing a flowing left hand melodic line under chords, alternating with right hand melody. The C section is similar to many of his lush trios of this era, though less complex harmonically. The D section is well syncopated, almost to the point of sounding improvisational, and shares the end of the B section in an expression of unity and continuity. Note that the title term came into the American lexicon in the mid-1880s in association with Irish-born John Edward Kelly, better known as boxer Jack Dempsey - The Non-Pareil (the original, not the 1920s fighter who took the same name), who remained undefeated in 41 bouts from 1883 to 1889. He was mostly victorious in subsequent bouts over the next few years until his early death in 1895 at age 33. While there may be no direct association between Dempsey and the Joplin piece, his extraordinary career and national fame may have certainly kept the word floating around in the public's consciousness for many years after." (from ragpiano.com)

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