© 2025 Kansas City Public Radio
NPR in Kansas City
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Ragtime Pianist Frederick Hodges

Ragtime fell out of 'style' by the 1920s but its adherents are proud of its rich history.

By Up to Date

 Listen Podcast

Steve Kraske talks with pianist Frederick Hodges , one of the nation's leading ragtime performers, about the music's popularity, the Kansas City Ragtime Revelry, and the history of ragtime.

Ragtime music, which enjoyed its peak popularity in the early part of the 20th century, began as dance music in the red-light districts of American cities before being published as popular street music for piano. Its syncopated - or 'ragged' rhythm was popularized by composers like Scott Joplin, Joseph Lamb, and James Scott.

No matter what happens in Washington D.C., Kansas City needs KCUR. And KCUR needs you.

Our ability to report local news — accurate, independent and paywall-free — depends on you. Donate now to support fact-based news.