Kalinka (Russian: Калинка, meaning little viburnum / snowball tree) is one of the most iconic and world-famous Russian folk-style songs, widely regarded as a musical symbol of Russia.

It was composed in 1860 by Russian composer and folklorist Ivan Petrovich Larionov. Originally written as an incidental piece for a local theatrical performance in Saratov on the Volga River, it was not a traditional ancient folk tune, but crafted to imitate authentic Russian folk musical styles. After World War II, the renowned Alexandrov Ensemble (Red Army Choir) helped popularize it globally, making it a staple of Russian choral performance. Tenor Evgeny Belyaev was one of the most celebrated interpreters of this classic work.

The song is a tender love ballad full of pastoral romance:

1. The title word Kalinka (viburnum berry) and Malinka (raspberry) are classic symbols in Russian folklore, used to metaphorize a beautiful young woman and sweet love.
2. The verses depict a quiet scene resting beneath a green pine tree, with gentle longing and affectionate praise for a beloved maiden, blending admiration for nature and innocent courtship.

1. Accelerating Refrain: Its most recognizable feature is the repeating chorus line Kalinka, kalinka, kalinka moya!. Every round of the refrain speeds up gradually, building energy from soft and lyrical to lively, upbeat and exhilarating.
2. Dual Rhythm Style: It shifts freely between slow, melodious solo lyrical passages and fast, bouncy dance rhythms. It is commonly paired with the famous Russian squat dance Prisyadka, forming the classic Kalinka stage performance combination of song and dance.
3. Flexible Arrangement: It works wonderfully for solo singing, large mixed choirs, and instrumental renditions with folk instruments like balalaika and flute.

For over 160 years, Kalinka has become the representative work of Russian folk music worldwide. It frequently appears in international military music festivals, cultural galas and global stage shows. Numerous cover versions, remixes and adapted arrangements exist across genres, firmly securing its status as the best-known Russian folk song around the globe.