The best-known Russian folk-style song in the world, written by Ivan Larionov in 1860 for a stage show. This is the fast refrain, a bouncing line that climbs and drops on a few white keys, played twice, in A minor.
How do you play Larionov · Kalinka on the piano, the easy way?
With one hand and 8 keys: put a finger on key 1, G4, and number the keys the song uses from there. Then press the numbers in order: 6 8 7 6 5 4 1 6 (in letter notes: E G F E D C G E). The whole song lasts about 29 seconds; the lesson on this page shows the next key and waits for you.
How many keys do I need for Larionov · Kalinka?
8 keys, all white keys, played with the right hand: 1 = G, 2 = A, 3 = B, 4 = C, 5 = D, 6 = E, 7 = F, 8 = G.
What are the first notes of Larionov · Kalinka?
In numbers: 6 8 7 6 5 4 1 6. In letter notes: E G F E D C G E.
Is Larionov · Kalinka free to play and share?
Yes. Larionov · Kalinka is in the public domain (Ivan Larionov, Kalinka (1860)). This easy arrangement, its number sheet and its MIDI file are free to use and share for learning.
Can I play it without a piano?
Yes: tap the keys on the page on a phone or tablet, or press the numbers 1–8 on a computer keyboard. The lesson waits for the right key and shows the next one.
How long does it take to learn?
The whole song lasts 29 seconds at 132 beats a minute. Most beginners play it through within a few tries; lower the speed with the slider to go slower.