This reference work investigates the historical development, musical structure, and cultural impact of the ragtime genre through a comprehensive cataloging of its primary artifacts. David A. Jasen, a noted music historian and archivist, compiles decades of research to provide a systematic framework for understanding the evolution of ragtime. The text argues that the genre's legacy is best preserved through the intersection of its recorded history and its published sheet music. By synthesizing these disparate sources, the author establishes a definitive record for scholars and enthusiasts alike.

Experts and musicologists frequently cite this volume as a foundational reference for the study of American popular music. Readers often note the high density of technical data, which serves as a primary resource for researchers tracking the provenance of specific ragtime compositions.