Charles Leslie Johnson’s Golden Spider Rag (1910) is a simple, straightforward piece. The opening chords of the introduction would later be expanded into the A theme of Johnson’s foxtrot Teasing the Cat (1916). The piece’s A section is reminiscent of that of Dill Pickles (1906). The octave-heavy B section and more thinly-scored C section contrast nicely. The Ragtime Skedaddlers have made a very pleasant string band recording of Golden Spider Rag, featured on their 2012 album Mandolins at the Cake Walk. The score for the piece can be downloaded at imslp.org.
Brandon Byrne is a ragtime composer, performer, and scholar. Max Morath said of Byrne, “Brandon’s unique compositions display unparalleled gifts and hidden virtuosity. His music reflects the past and challenges the future. His playing will touch your soul.” For a full list of his compositions, please visit his website.
