Classic Rags
This lesson features arrangements of several classic rags from the Ragtime era (1890 - 1920). Each of these rags was written by Scott Joplin, the most famous of all Ragtime composers. Many of the chords and techniques studied in previous sections will feature in the following arrangements.
The first arrangement is one of the most popular rags of all time, The Entertainer. This rag begins with a single note run as a four bar introduction. To play a single note run allocate the right hand i and m fingers to the first three strings. The thumb (p)controls the three bass strings. A suggested right hand fingering has been given for the introduction.
Octaves
Another interesting fingerpicking technique is the use of octaves. An octave is the interval between two notes of the same name, 12 frets apart. This following diagram highlights the location of four separate octaves. The four bar introduction to the next arrangement, Weeping Willow is played using octaves. Practice the treble and bass parts separately at first before trying to play both parts together.
Weeping Willow is another classic rag in the key of G. The first section uses a chord progression similar to the first section of The Entertainer. The second section uses chord shapes all over the fretboard and requires some fretting with the left hand thumb. Remember to try the suggested left hand fingering notated in the tab.
Maple Leaf Rag consists of two very different sections, both sixteen bars in length. The diminished chord is used extensively throughout the first section, including a single note diminished scale run in bars 7 and 8. To play this run use your right hand thumb (p) on the fifth and fourth strings and your i finger on the third string.
* The instruction D.C. al Fine means that you play the song again from the beginning until you reach the word Fine, at the end of the first section.
Stoptime Rags
A stoptime rag is a type of rag which focuses heavily on syncopation. The first beat of the bar in particular is often not played. Traditionally stoptime rags are played while "stamping" a foot on the first and third beat of the bar.
This effect, indicated by the word stamp in the notation, is applied to the second section of The Ragtime Dance.
