What is the source of the bass pattern played by Scott Joplin's left hand in "Maple Leaf Rag"?

The correct answer highlights the influence of marching band music on the bass pattern in Scott Joplin's "Maple Leaf Rag." Joplin's work is characterized by a distinct rhythmic and melodic structure that is reminiscent of the music associated with marching bands, which often featured strong, syncopated rhythms and a straightforward, steady beat in the bass line. This connection is particularly evident in the use of a two-beat or "oom-pah" pattern, where the left hand plays a bass note followed by a chord, mimicking the strong pulse found in marching band arrangements.

In contrast, ragtime music is a broader category that includes various influences, including jazz and blues elements, but it is not solely defined by these characteristics. While jazz band music does incorporate some aspects of ragtime, its improvisational nature and style differ. Similarly, rural blues piano music has its own distinct characteristics that are not primarily derived from marching bands. Understanding these influences helps to appreciate the unique fusion of styles that define Joplin's composition and ragtime as a musical genre.