Too Many Beans - Glenn Jenks

If ragtime is the high-wire act of American piano music, then Glenn Jenks’ “Too Many Beans” is the moment the performer tosses the umbrella aside and sprints across the wire blindfolded. As the third movement of his ragtime trilogy Triskelion, this piece represents Jenks at his most exuberant and technically audacious—a full-throttle celebration of early novelty piano wrapped in his unmistakable wit.

Dedicated to Tony Caramia—long admired for his dazzling mastery of novelty piano—“Too Many Beans” is written with a kind of affectionate mischief. Jenks knew what Caramia could do, and he clearly set out to challenge even him. In the stylistic spirit of Zez Confrey, Pauline Alpert, and Rube Bloom, the piece unleashes a torrent of left-hand stride and right-hand acrobatics that seem expressly designed to tie the pianist’s fingers into pretzel knots. The title itself hints at the barely-contained energy: the music bubbles, sputters, and nearly boils over with rollicking momentum.

But amid all the finger-twisting mayhem, Jenks reveals his deeper artistry. The middle sections ease their foot off the accelerator, allowing the music to slow down, stretch out, and breathe. Here, the writing becomes more lyrical—playful still, but with a gentler shimmer. These passages offer a welcome moment of repose, a chance for both performer and listener to gather themselves before the roller-coaster plunges back into breakneck novelty brilliance. Jenks understood that contrast is essential in a piece this explosive; these calmer interludes make the surrounding fireworks shine all the brighter.

For listeners, the whole experience is irresistible—funny, daring, and joyously unpredictable. For performers, it’s something else entirely: a delightful ordeal. Playing it feels like teetering on the edge of derailment at any moment. Jenks’ writing pushes the pianist to the brink, then gives them just enough relief in the middle sections to reset their nerves before sending them hurtling forward again.

“Too Many Beans” is Glenn Jenks at his most imaginative and most impish. It’s a joyous tribute to the great novelty composers of the early 20th century and a knowing challenge to anyone bold enough to put it under their fingers. Whether you’re reveling in its kaleidoscopic energy or savoring those much-needed moments of calm, one thing is certain: this piece is a masterclass in ragtime invention—and an unforgettable ride.

If you want to try this piece for yourself, you can purchase "The Complete Rags by Glenn Jenks" at Sheet Music Plus. You get all of Jenks' 30+ ragtime compositions for just a little over $10 - a fabulous deal!

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