Dubbed the "King of Ragtime" by his music publisher, Scott Joplin
(1868-1917) was a formally educated musician whose popular piano rags
inspired him to go on to composition on a larger, far more developed
scale and conception. His second opera, Treemonisha, an example of his
most serious work, was published in 1911 at his own expense.
The story of a confident young woman whose life, in many respects,
paralleled Joplin's, the work was a blueprint for social, racial, and
sexual equality. The opera became Joplin's obsession, taking precedence
over his other creative efforts while tragically affecting his health
and fortune. In describing its energetic rhythms and melodies, The New
York Times praised Treemonisha as gently imbued with ragtime,
aspiring "to genuine operatic richness."
The vocal score of this pioneering opera appears here in a handsome and
inexpensive edition, sure to be valued by soloists, rehearsal pianists,
and anyone who delights in the music of this important African-American
composer.