"Syncopated Musings" is a captivating journey through the world of ragtime and classical piano, masterfully curated and performed by pianist Marilyn Nonken. Released on February 11, 2022, via Divine Art, this album showcases the genius of Scott Joplin and his collaborators, offering a rich tapestry of rags, concert waltzes, and novelties for the pianoforte.
The album features 17 tracks, including iconic compositions like "Heliotrope Bouquet," "Sunflower Slow Drag," and "Solace," as well as lesser-known gems that highlight the depth and breadth of Joplin's influence. Nonken's virtuoso performance brings a fresh perspective to these timeless pieces, recorded at the James M. Dolan Recording Studio at New York University in April 2021.
Since the rediscovery of Scott Joplin’s ragtime genius in the 1970s, his music has become an essential part of the popular and classical repertoire. "Syncopated Musings" pays homage to this legacy, featuring works by Joplin and his contemporaries such as Arthur Marshall, Joseph Lamb, Louis Chauvin, and Scott Hayden. The album's duration of 67 minutes ensures a comprehensive exploration of the ragtime genre, making it an essential addition to any classical piano enthusiast's collection.