Description
Kalinka is a song that was written in 1860 by the Russian composer and folklorist Ivan Larionov (1830-1889). Larionov collected Russian folk songs on his travels around the country and their influence is very much evident in his own compositions. He wrote Kalinka upon the request of a local amateur theatre in Saratov and it was first performed there. It became hugely popular both in Russia and around the world and it is arguably the most famous of all Russian folk-style songs.
The lyrics of the song (which are pretty nonsensical!) refer to the Kalinka, which is the snowball tree (Viburnum opulus). The song begin slowly and gradually gains momentum until it reaches a whirlwind speed whereupon it settles back into a slow tempo and the acceleration begins again.
Over the years numerous cover versions have been recorded and it has been used in an array of varied settings including at USA ice hockey games and at Chelsea football club matches, as well as on video games and films.
