Ragtime, as a musical genre, enjoyed its first popularity peak as early as 1890s. Its role in American major popular music was gradually replaced by jazz. Not many musical genres experienced its revival as ragtime did, which took place between the 1950s and 1970s. During that period of time, some significant ragtime composers emerged, one of the most important being William Bolcom (b. 1938- ). In the following pages, the Three Ghost Rags by William Bolcom will be analyzed regarding its form and development of themes. In addition, I will explore both aspects of the composer, as well as the origin and development of ragtime. I hope that this dissertation will serves as a useful reference for anyone interested in ragtime or William Bolcom.

　　This dissertation consists of four chapters. Chapter 1 contains a brief biography of composer William Bolcom. Chapter 2 focuses on the origin and revival of ragtime. In Chapter 3, an analysis and interpretation of Three Ghost Rags is presented. Finally, chapter 4 offers a conclusion.

Graduate Recital Program:

Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827): Piano Sonata No.28 in A major, Op. 101

I. Etwas lebhaft und mit der innigsten Empfindung. (Allegretto, ma non troppo)

II. Lebhaft. Marschmäßig.(Vivace alla marcia)

III. Langsam und sehnsuchtsvoll. (Adagio, ma non troppo, con affetto)

IV. Geschwind, doch nicht zu sehr, und mit Entschlossenheit.(Allegro)

Robert Schumann (1810-1856): Papillons Op.2

Claude Debussy (1862-1918): Images II

Cloches à travers les Feuilles

Et la Lune descend sur le Tample qui fut

Poissons d'or

William Bolcom (b. 1938-): Three Ghost Rags

Graceful Ghost Rag

The Poltergeist

Dream Shadows