Tumbalalayka

for mixed chorus a cappella

by Michael Kaulkin

“An exceptionally ingenious arrangement”
— Der Küsnachter, Switzerland

Tumbalalayka is a rhythmic, harmonically rich setting of the beloved Yiddish folksong. The voices imitate the strumming of the balalaika in this classic riddle-courtship song—by turns playful and tender. Performed regularly by choirs around the world. It is included on French vocal quartet Quatour Aesthesis’ 2022 CD O Do Not Move.

At a glance

• WACDA 2026 Reading Session selection
• SATB a cappella • 2’30”
• Yiddish
• Moderate difficulty
• For strong HS, university, community choirs

Please note: As of October 2026, “Tumbalalayka” is scheduled for publication by E.C. Schirmer in early 2027. It can no longer be purchased here. Please contact Sarah Sheldon – [email protected] – to request licensed copies.

SKU: SWM-013 Categories: Choral Music, Mixed Voices Instrumentation: Choral

Voicing:	SATB
Descriptive Tags:	Fun, Jewish, PROJECT : ENCORE
Instrumentation:	A Cappella
Language:	Yiddish
Sacred or Secular:	Secular
Duration:	1-5 Minutes

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