The trip to Sedalia is becoming more familiar for Ethan Leinwand, as the St Louis-based pianist is this year’s artist-in-residence for the Scott Joplin Ragtime Foundation.

The designation means that Leinwand is spending the week in the birthplace of ragtime music, highlighting the genre’s unique style and place in local history as well as the American Songbook. He tells KMMO News how he became interested in performing ragtime music and preserving its history.
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Leinwand says this year’s Scott Joplin International Ragtime Festival is set for May 27-30 and is expected to bring in over 35 artists.

As part of his residency, Leinwand will perform a concert Thursday, Feb. 5 at 7 p.m. at the Katy Depot in Sedalia, with tickets available for purchase at the door.

This story was updated at 10:49 a.m. to correct an incorrect spelling.