STYLISTIC AND PERFORMANCE ASPECTS OF RAGTIME IN THE INSTRUMENTAL GENRE

Abstract

The article deals with the essential characteristics of ragtime as an important stage in the history of instrumental performance, which became the basis for the development of jazz. Evaluating the results of scientific research, it is concluded that ragtime played a significant role in the professional formation of musicians, as well as in the development of orchestral and ensemble music. It is established that at that time, pianists developed unique playing techniques and special approaches to the interpretation of ragtime works, which were marked by complex rhythmic and melodic structures, as well as original harmonies that created a unique style of the genre. The article also examines ragtime as a compositional genre that combines the main elements of the European musical tradition with the innovative sound of jazz. The author pays special attention to the work of Scott Joplin, one of the most prominent composers and pianists who brought ragtime to a new professional level. Joplin not only created musical works, but also actively worked on improving the performance technique, which influenced the further development of the genre. His compositions, such as ‘Maple Leaf Rag’ and ‘The Entertainer’, became classics and defined new rhythmic and melodic structures typical for ragtime. In particular, Joplin’s significant role was that he was the first to achieve a high level of ragtime development, combining technical skill with deep artistic content. One of his most significant achievements is the opera Tremontia, which demonstrated the new possibilities of the genre and raised it to an artistic and performing level. The work of Joplin and other pianists of this period not only expanded the repertoire of ragtime pieces, but also helped to establish ragtime as an important part of American musical culture. Highlighting ragtime as an artistic and performing phenomenon, the article offers a study of its influence on the work of jazz musicians and orchestras, which contributed to the development of more complex forms of ensemble performance. Thanks to ragtime, a new form of musical interpretation emerged, mixing classical traditions and innovative elements that later became the basis for jazz and other musical styles.