Four Joplin Rags

Description

Flute 1, Flute 2, Piano — PREFACEOne of the challenges of playing Scott Joplin’s ragtime pieces on the piano is coordinating the constant juggling of stride bass and chords in the left hand along with the syncopated rhythms of the melody in the right hand. It occurred to me one day that creating arrangements which gave these melodies to a pair of treble instruments while condensing the piano part down to a more accompanimental role would make things much easier, while also giving more musicians the opportunity to participate in the fun!In making these arrangements, I have attempted to adhere to Joplin’s vision of these four rags as closely as I could, adding in only occasional countermelodies in one of the flute lines or small embellishments in the piano textures. It is my hope that Joplinwould be flattered to hear his music re-imagined in this fashion over 100 years later, and that these arrangements will allow performers and audiences to experience this important and elegant American musical genre with fresh ears.— David Gilliland Scott Joplin’s ragtime gems are American classics, equally suitable for the recital stage or less formal occasions. David Gilliland’s transcriptions for two flutes and piano may be presented either as a suite or individually. Gilliland has crafted the collection so flute duos may share the joy of performing Joplin together, while the pianist provides the big “stride” accompaniments. Includes The Easy Winners, The Entertainer, Palm Leaf Rag, and The Cascades. For advanced performers.