The Entertainer was one of the most original of many piano rags written by the American composer-pianist Scott Joplin (1868-1917). It was published in 1902, and is subtitled A Rag Time Two Step, which was a popular dance at the time. There was something of a revival in Joplin’s music after the centenary of his birth and The Entertainer was used as the theme tune in the well-known film, The Sting (1973), which won no less than seven Oscars. As a result, the tune became familiar to many. Ever since, its easy-going, memorable themes have continued to endear themselves to the listening public and to pianists of all ages, amateur and professional. In this edition, there is an option to hear the first theme again at the end, or to end where Joplin intended, after the last of three contrasting sections. Phrasing, extra dynamics, articulation marks and suggested extra tempi instructions (i.e. all except the initial ‘Not fast’) have been added, as, in the original publication, there are just occasional indications.
Duration: 4.45
