CLIMAX RAG - Free Jazz Leadsheet

“climax rag” was written in 1914 by pianist and bandleader James Scott, one of the key composers of classic ragtime. Early piano rolls and published sheet music helped spread the piece before later recordings by revival-era bands brought it into the jazz world.

The tune features multiple contrasting strains, steady syncopation, and a buoyant rhythmic drive typical of mid-1910s ragtime. Its lively structure lends itself easily to ensemble arrangements within traditional and early-jazz styles.