Presto, mvmt IV from String Quartet No. 14 "Death & the Maiden" - for Clarinet Quartet by Franz Schubert Woodwind Ensemble - Digital Sheet Music

SKU: A0.1844745

ISMN# 979-0-3071-0065-7
ASCAP WORK ID# 935090835

This challenging and dynamic, advanced intermediate mixed clarinet quartet digital download arrangement of Franz Schubert's "Presto," mvmt IV from his String Quartet No. 14, "Death and the Maiden," is perfect for recitals, contests, competitions, background dinner music gigs, weddings, educational outreach, and formal events. This transcription of a Romantic Era work was written for the most advanced ensembles, from college groups to professional quartets, and is scored for Eb clarinet, two Bb clarinets, and bass.

This rondo-type movement opens in D minor and has two main themes that repeat a few times each. The first theme features unisons, octaves, and running triplets. The second theme is chorale-like and quotes another Schubert work: "Erlkönig" Op. 1, D 328, written in 1815. The work closes with a Prestissimo coda beginning in D major, but ultimately returning to D minor with a turbulent, devilish, frantic conclusion. This diabolical tarantella, also known as the “dance of death,” includes sudden dramatic shifts from fortissimo to pianissimo and abrupt changes in tone from the lyrical to the dramatic. Therefore, it is important to exaggerate all articulations and dynamics in this piece. Originally scored for string quartet, I hope you enjoy this unique setting for clarinets.

This masterpiece of chamber music has become extremely popular in the repertoire. According to the Carnegie Hall website: “In a testament to the work's enduring popularity, it has been the most played string quartet in Carnegie Hall history with 56 performances.”

Carnegiehall.org. (n.d.). The Five Most-Often Performed String Quartets at Carnegie Hall. Carnegie Hall. https://www.carnegiehall.org/explore/articles/2021/07/22/the-five-most-often-performed-string-quartets-at-carnegie-hall

If you like this arrangement, you might like my clarinet quartet arrangement of the "Adagio-Allegro," from Streichersinfonie Nr. 8. It's available on:
Sheet Music Direct
Sheet Music Plus

COMING SOON: In 2026, look for the remaining two movements as I complete my set from Schubert’s string quartet masterwork, Death and the Maiden. You can purchase them separately or the four-movement set. Save 30% when you purchase the entire quartet.

For more info about Mark A. Craig / Craig Music Publishers, visit my website, CraigMusicPublishers, and my social media links below. Please like, follow/subscribe, and feel free to leave questions or comments about my arrangements. Thanks for stopping by! See you soon.
Facebook
Instagram
LinkinBio
YouTube

Updated 18 Mar 2026