A First Book of Ragtime

This compilation of easy-to-play ragtime favorites features 24 rollicking melodies by "The Big Three" of ragtime — Scott Joplin, James Scott, and Joseph Lamb — plus pieces by Eubie Blake, Tom Turpin, and other artists. Popular tunes include "Maple Leaf Rag," "The Entertainer," and "Tiger Rag." Novices of all ages will delight in these simplified arrangements of carefully selected pieces. The editor provides suggested fingerings and comments on each piece that include background on the composers and tips for performance. Along with the twenty-four piano arrangements, this collection includes a free MP3 download for every piece, which will help beginning pianists develop an ear for the melodies. The MP3s may be downloaded individually or collectively.