Yes, it doesn't sound like the Maple Leaf at all, and I wish those academics would stop saying it does - have they even tried playing this piece? The Sugar Cane only uses a similar structure for Parts 1 (the novel introductory section which is part of the rag itself; the interlude leading to the rise of the main rhythmic melody with pulsating block chords instead of the usual "stride" piano in the lefthand(bass to bass chord)& 3 (the same opening rhythms - but then everything changes). Parts 2 & 4 are completely different, as is the feel of this music : it's much more lyrical than the Maple Leaf and there's so much more scope for different renderings - it's quite a sophisticated rag with less of the showman attributes than Maple. Unfortunately, I'm finding it really hard to play all the way through without glitches every now and again - any practice ideas, anyone?
PARTITION