Scherzo Fuga

This is the 4th and last movement of a marvelous string quartet by Giuseppe Verdi (1813-1901). It is little known, but a truly magnificent chamber piece. Verdi wrote many chamber works, but only the string quartet survived. This movement adapts itself very well to the ranges of the four clarinets - Eb, Bb, alto, & bass. Also included is an optional Bb clarinet part to sub for the Eb clarinet. Since this music was originally conceived for string players in mind, it creates some interesting gymnastics for wind instruments....not to mention the relentless phrases. The grade level for this piece is "Medium-Advanced" due to the technical difficulties in all four parts and the numerous accidentals. (NOTES: 8.5x11 score & parts).