“Rags to Riches” with the Newport Ragtime Band
The Roots of America’s Musical Heritage (Grades 6-12)
10 a.m. Tuesday, February 25, 2025
Held at 7Hills Church in Florence, KY

**Free.  Registration required **

Celebrate Black History Month with this exceptional cross-curricular opportunity.  A performance and slide show by the KSO’s Newport Ragtime Band surveys the roots of American musical heritage. The program features ragtime, blues, Dixieland and early jazz from 1898-1933, with tunes by legendary black musicians/composers Scott Joplin, James Reese Europe, W.C. Handy, Jelly Roll Morton, Fats Waller and others. The program also highlights many local Cincinnati connections to this music’s national popularity and historical significance.  The Q & A session at the end of the concert allows students and teachers the opportunity to ask questions of any musician on-stage.

Funds for buses may be available through ArtsWave  — please click here to download an application and additional information.

Admission is free but registration is required.

On the Program:
Just a Closer Walk With Thee ………………Traditional
Entertainer…………………………………….Scott Joplin
St. Louis Blues………………………………..W.C. Handy
Queen Rag……………………………………..Floyd Willis
When It’s Sleepy Time Down South…….Clarence Muse
Castle Walk…………………………James Reese Europe
Black Bottom Stomp…………………..Jelly Roll Morton
Yo’ Feets Too Big……………………………..Fats Waller
Weary Blues……………………………….Artie Matthews
Minnie the Moocher……………………….Cab Calloway
 * Q & A *
When the Saints go Marching In…………..Traditional

The 2024-25 Education Series is supported in part by grants from the Charles H. Dater Foundation, Duke Energy Foundation and the William P. Anderson Foundation.

Teacher Quotes:

“This KSO program continues to offer not only Jazz history, but Cincinnati music history as well…KSO fills gaps by providing an additional voice and explanation beyond the teacher.” – Michael W., Withrow University H.S.

“Very well organized; quality of performance was excellent! Loved the powerpoint.” — Berna T., Bowling Middle School

“I felt the choice of pieces was wonderful, making the students aware of composers and songs they might not already know. The quality of the musicians was excellent. The slide show was a great addition with interesting facts that made the composers and the time period more relevant.” — Kris V., Corryville Catholic