When Scott Joplin lived in Sedalia before moving to St. Louis, he met Will and then John Stark, with whom he worked out a deal to publish his music. John Hancock, of Hancock and Kelly on KMOX is also a Scott Joplin expert (and pianist) who recently met Kyle Stark, a descendant of John Stark and they came in to tell the history of the collaboration. Amazing! Both Stark Publishing and Scott Joplin ended up in St. Louis, and Stark published 72 pieces by Mr. Joplin. What a story.

Apr 11, 2026






