Riverside Rag
Composer: Charles Cohen
Publisher: Charles Cohen Music Company
Copyright: 1910
Cover: Unknown
Collectible Value: $250.00
Category: Piano Rag
Pattern: Intro A A B B A Trio Trio1 A
Difficulty (1 to 5): * *
Note: This is the rare original cover of Riverside Rag showing the Riverside Amusement Park located on Riverside Drive in Binghamton, New York.
Riverside Rag
Composer: Charles Cohen
Publisher: Vandersloot Music Publishing Co.
Copyright: 1910
Cover: Walter J. Dittmar
Collectible Value: $30.00
Category: Piano Rag
Pattern: Intro A A B B A Trio Trio1 A
Difficulty (1 to 5): * *
Note: This cover is presented for historical context of the era only, and does not represent the point of view or taste of Mr. Edwards. It underscores the often-difficult race relations and stereotypes of early 20th century America, and is not posted here to offend anybody except in that historical context. Click for a detail of the alligator's conversation.
Currently available from:
Indiana Harmony Collection
Indiana Harmony Collection
Riverside Rag Detail
In spite of the cleverness of the pun spoken here by the alligators (or are they Crocodiles?), this cover remains one of the more offensive examples of a time when stereotypes were largely presented in this forum. Even if the children swimming in the river were white, the mere thought of the impending danger would be considered frightening and inappropriate for a music cover. Fortunately the attitude of American society has largely changed into the 21st century. This image helps demonstrate how far we have come. If you find it offensive, keep in mind the time in which it was produced and know that we need to remember our history in order to not repeat the sadder aspects of it.
Currently available from:
Indiana Harmony Collection
Indiana Harmony Collection
Performer: Bill Edwards
