WINGERT-JONES PUBLICATIONS

The music in Sunflower Slow Drag is full of brightness and levity, having the light, upbeat character found in many of Joplin's happiest compositions. After a brief introductory passage, the jaunty main theme appears in all its ragtime cheer, typical of Joplin's works. The closing is especially reminiscent of the ending of his more famous The Entertainer and while not as well known, this cheerful four minute works deserves the same fame and popularity. Originally scored for chamber winds, optional parts have been included for larger ensembles.

This delightful stop-time two-step dance was first published in 1902, and its appeal is as widespread today as it was then. A new sense of vibrancy and optimism is reflected in this early 20th century dance that features the wild "new" rhythms of ragtime which substantially changed the nature of dance. Lively and rhythmic, this work displays all the features that made the style so popular and shows the composer to be a true master of the genre, earning him the title "The King of Ragtime." Syncopated, bright, and energetic, it's an entertaining addition to concert programs. Members of the band become a part of the act by rhythmically stomping along with the music.

This ragtime masterpiece was composed in 1907 and is named after the beautiful variegated southern flower. What makes this particular work stand out from other ragtime pieces is the oddity of its structure, rhythm, and melody, which could be the result of the collaboration of these two composers. The first two strains were written by Louis Chauvin, a brilliant young pianist from St. Louis, and the last two strains were composed by the master, Scott Joplin.  A truly unique and appealing ragtime work.