The Quintet for Strings (1957–1958) is a composition for two violins, two viola, and one cello by George Perle, "in memory of Laura Slobe".
[2] The "sonata-like" first movement also presents material used throughout the work: "a descending scalar melodic line, sustained pedal tones, and melodic thirds.
"[3] Of the third movement, a theme and four variations,[4] Carl Sigmon writes that, "a declamatory cry dominates the movement – a cry so stark that it must be repeated; there is no answer but itself.
"[5] It contains a viola, cello, and violin cadenza in the second, third, and fourth variations, respectively.
[6] It has been recorded on George Perle: A Retrospective (2006) Bridge 9214A/B.