Discover the most popular classical song tabs for the kalimba so that you can play along. All of these are available in letter notes but you can easily convert them to number notation if you want to. In the coming year, we are going to be turning this into tutorial videos so that you can watch and listen to the classic song melodies. As we will be updating this blog post with more tabs, feel free to bookmark this page so that you can refer back to it at a later date.
1. Ludwig van Beethoven - Fur Elise
Eº Dº Eº Dº Eº B Dº
Cº A C E A B E B Cº E
Get the full Fur Elise tab here.
2. Claude Debussy - Clair de Lune
G G° E° D° E° D°
C° D° C° E° C° B C° B
Get the full Clair De Lune tab here.
3. John Denver - Perhaps love
G D° C° B C° D° C° G
G E F G A F G
4. Johann Strauss II - Blue Danube Waltz
The Blue Danube Waltz is a world-famous classical waltz composed by Johann Strauss II in 1866, also known by its German title An der schönen blauen Donau. Celebrating the Danube River, Europe’s second-longest river, the piece is known for its flowing melodies, light rhythms, and dramatic crescendos that reflect the river’s movement and surrounding landscapes. Often featured in films, television, and advertising, it is strongly associated with Viennese culture, ballroom dancing, and Strauss’s legacy as the “Waltz King.”
C E G (G-C) (E-G)
G° (G°-C) (E-G) E° (E°-C) (E-G)
Get the full Blue Danube Waltz tab here.
5. Edelweiss - from the Sound of Music
Edelweiss is a sentimental ballad from the 1959 Rodgers and Hammerstein musical The Sound of Music. Sung by Captain von Trapp (played by Christopher Plummer), the song serves as a farewell to Austria and has become a symbol of Austrian culture. Referencing the edelweiss flower, its lyrics express loyalty, love of country, and tradition. With its gentle melody and emotional simplicity, Edelweiss remains a classic, commonly performed at weddings, funerals, and ceremonial events worldwide.
(C E°) E (G° G) (D°° G) B D°
(C C°°) E (G° G) (F F°) A C°
5. Coppelia Valse
The Coppélia Waltz is a classical waltz composed by Léo Delibes in 1870 for the ballet Coppélia. Known for its light, airy, and playful character, the music reflects the joyful spirit of the ballet. It opens with a gentle string melody that gradually builds as the orchestra joins in, passing the theme between sections. Elegant and lively, the Coppélia Waltzremains a favourite in ballet performances and classical music repertoire.
A C° F-F° G° E° A-D° E° C° A-C G F A-C
A C° F-F° G° E° A-D° E° C° E~B A G E~B
Get the full Coppelia Valse tab here.
6. Ludwig Van Beethoven - Ode to Joy
Ode to Joy is the famous final movement of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony, featuring a powerful choral theme that celebrates joy, unity, and the human spirit. Recognised worldwide, the piece has become a universal symbol of hope, freedom, and optimism. With its instantly memorable melody and uplifting message, Ode to Joy stands as one of the greatest masterpieces in classical music, showcasing Beethoven’s enduring genius.
E° E° F° G° G° F° E° D°
C° C° D° E° E° D° D°
Get the full Ode to Joy tab here.
7. Beethoven - Symphony No. 5
Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony is one of the most recognisable works in classical music, famous for its iconic four-note opening motif, often described as “fate knocking at the door.” Widely used in films, television, and advertising, the symphony goes far beyond its opening theme. Across its four movements, Beethoven takes listeners on an emotional journey—from dramatic intensity to a joyful, triumphant finale—showcasing his genius and lasting influence on classical music.
A A A F G G G E
A A A F D° D° D° A
8. Robert Schumann - Traumerei
Träumerei is a well-known classical piano piece by Robert Schumann, published in 1838 as part of Kinderszenen(Scenes from Childhood). Translating to “Dreaming,” the piece is loved for its gentle melody, soft rhythms, and nostalgic, reflective mood. Often described as a lullaby for adults, Träumerei remains a staple of the classical piano repertoire and is frequently performed at weddings, funerals, and special occasions.
G (C° C) (G E) B C° E° G° C° (C° F) (C° A) (B° G) (A° F)
(G° E) C° D° E° (F° G) A° C° D° (E° C) G° (D° G) A G F (G E) D
Get the full Traumerei tab here.
9. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart - Symphony No.40
There's no doubt that Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart is one of the most famous and beloved composers in history. His Symphony No.40 is no exception - it's a masterpiece that's still enjoyed today. The Symphony was written in 1791, and it's based on the popular Jupiter symphony. Below is the kalimba tab with letter notation so that you can learn to play it.
F° E° E° F° E° E° F° E° E° (B°EGB)
B° A° G° G° F° E° E° D° C° (C°E)
10. La Romanesca – Ji Hoo’s Theme (Boys Over Flowers)
E° F° E° F° (E° C) D° C° (C° C) B A B (E C)
E° B E° (C° C) B A E° B E° (A C)
Get the full La Romanesca tab here.
11. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart - Eine Kleine Nachtmusik
Eine kleine Nachtmusik is one of Mozart’s most famous classical compositions, written in 1787. Translating to “A Little Night Music,” the piece is scored for a string ensemble and features four movements: a lively Allegro, lyrical Andante, elegant Minuet, and energetic finale. Known for its lightness, balance, and memorable melodies, it perfectly reflects Mozart’s mastery of harmony and form. Frequently used in films, television, and advertising, it remains one of the most recognisable works in classical music, despite being published only after Mozart’s death.
C° G C° G C° G C° E° G°
F° D° F° D° F° D° B D° G
Get the full Eine Kleine Nachtmusik tab here.
12. Westworld Main Title Theme
The Westworld Main Title Theme by Ramin Djawadi is an instrumental piece that serves as the opening theme for the television series "Westworld." The song captures the essence of the show's themes of artificial intelligence, existentialism, and the blurring lines between reality and illusion.
A A A G F F F E F G
A C° D° E° G G G F G
13. Sandy Linzer - A Lover’s Concerto
A Lover's Concerto" is a classic that was written by Sandy Linzer and Denny Randell, the song was first recorded by The Toys in 1965 and has since been covered by numerous artists, including The Supremes and Kelly Chen. The song's upbeat melody and romantic lyrics create a sense of joy and excitement, making it the perfect choice for weddings, romantic comedies, and other celebrations of love.
(G°C) E G E C° D° E° F°
(G° C E G) E C C° (A° F) A C° A
14. Vivaldi - The Four Seasons
Antonio Vivaldi's "The Four Seasons" is a timeless masterpiece that encapsulates the beauty of nature and the changing of the seasons. Composed in the early 18th century, the piece is divided into four concertos, each representing a different season. From the delicate and evocative melodies of "Spring" to the triumphant and boisterous tones of "Summer," Vivaldi's work takes listeners on a journey through the natural world. As a virtuoso violinist, Vivaldi's skill is on full display throughout "The Four Seasons," with intricate and technically demanding passages that showcase the full range of the instrument. The piece has remained popular for centuries, with countless interpretations and adaptations in various genres.
(E° C°) E° E° D° C° (C° E° G°) G°F°
(E° C°) E° E° D° C° (C° E° G°) G°F°
Get the full Four Seasons tab here.
15. Johannes Brahms – Lullaby
E° E° G° E° E° G°
E° G° C°° B° A° A° G°
Get the full Brahms Lullaby tab here.
16. Lara Fabian - Broken Vow
GC°D°E°F°D°C°E°
GC°D°E°F°D°C°E°
17. Tchaikovsky - Swan Lake
E° A B C° D° E° C° E° C° E°
A C° A F C° A D° C° B E°
Get the full Swan Lake tab here.
18. Chopin - Nocturne Op . 9 No. 2
Chopin's Nocturne Op. 9 No. 2 is a beautiful piano piece that has interested audiences for over a century. Composed in the Romantic era, the piece showcases Chopin's mastery of the piano and his ability to evoke deep emotions through music. The Nocturne's melancholic melody and delicate phrasing create a dreamlike atmosphere, transporting the listener to a world of beauty and sadness. It has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and other forms of media, cementing its place as one of the most recognizable and beloved pieces of classical music.
G (E° C) E G (F D°) (E° G) (C D°) E G C°
G (E° A) C° E° A° E° (G° D) F A F°
Get the full Nocturne tab here.
19. Bach – Minuet in C Major
Minuet in C Major is a well-known classical piece by Johann Sebastian Bach, admired for its simplicity, balance, and elegance. Based on the minuet dance form popular across Europe, the piece features a graceful melody and gentle rhythm that clearly reflect Bach’s mastery of melody and harmony. A staple of classical music education and performance, it remains a timeless favourite that continues to inspire listeners centuries after its composition.
(G° E) C° D° E° F° G° C° C°
(F A°) F° G° A° B° C°° C° C°
Get the full Minuet in C Major tab here.
20. J. S. Bach - Prelude No.1
J.S. Bach's Prelude No. 1 is a masterpiece of classical music that has stood the test of time. With its intricate yet harmonious composition, the piece showcases Bach's skill as a composer and musician. The prelude's soft and gentle melody gradually builds in intensity, culminating in a powerful and dramatic finale that leaves listeners in awe. Despite being over 300 years old, Bach's Prelude No. 1 remains a beloved and widely celebrated piece of music.
C E G C° E° G C° E° C E G C° E° G C° E°
C D A D° F° A D° F° C D A D° F° A D° F°
Get the full Prelude in C Major tab here.
21. Beethoven – Moonlight Sonata
The Moonlight Sonata, composed by Ludwig van Beethoven in 1801, is formally titled Piano Sonata No. 14 in C-sharp minor, Op. 27 No. 2 (Quasi una fantasia). Written for solo piano, the sonata has three movements, with the famous Adagio sostenuto opening known for its slow, melancholic, and introspective melody. The later movements become faster and more energetic, showcasing Beethoven’s dramatic contrast and technical depth. Although the nickname “Moonlight Sonata” was given after Beethoven’s death, the piece remains one of the most iconic and enduring works in classical music, admired for its emotional power and atmospheric beauty.
(C E) A C° / E A C° / E A C° / E A C°
(D E) A C° / E A C° / E A C° / E A C°
Get the full Moonlight Sonatata tab here.
22. Offenbach - Can Can
The classical can can song was made by Offenbach and has the most amazing feel to it, it is an incredibly famous used piece in the circus, energising its listeners one of the most famous melodies in the world. When the song is played you cant not move your feet and body to the beats, what an amazing piece of art. It was released in 1840 and was traditionally used for the 'can can' dance.
(C° C) (E G) (E G) (E G)
(B D°) (F F°) (E° G) (F D°)
Get the full Can Can tab here.
23. Yann Tiersen – La valse d’Amélie
La valse d'Amélie is a stunningly beautiful and whimsical instrumental piece composed by Yann Tiersen. Featured in the critically acclaimed film "Amélie," the song's playful yet melancholic melody captures the essence of the films quirky protagonist. The piece's use of accordion, piano, and strings creates a dreamy and ethereal atmosphere that transports listeners to the magical world of the film. With its universal message of hope and wonder, "La valse d'Amélie" has become a beloved classic.
ABC°BC°(D°CD)D
C°BA A(D°CD)
24. Yiruma - Maybe
Maybe is a piano composition by Yiruma that reflects on the uncertainty and hopefulness of love. The music carries a sense of longing and introspection, with gentle melodies and emotive harmonies that evoke feelings of anticipation and possibility. The title suggests a contemplation of what might be, capturing the ambivalence and longing that often accompany matters of the heart. Through its expressive melodies and delicate nuances, "Maybe" invites listeners to immerse themselves in the bittersweet journey of love and possibility.
C° D° C° (E° C) G° B C° C°
F C G A C° D° C°
25. Ludwig van Beethoven - Virus
E A B C° D° B C° A
A G A B C° D° E° E° E° E° E°
26. Edward Elgar – Salut d’Amour
C (G E) (G E) C (G E) (G E)
(E° C) E G E° (D° B G) C° B C°
Get the full Salut d'Amour tab here.
27. Richard Clayderman - Ballade Pour Adeline
Ballade Pour Adeline" is a beautiful and romantic instrumental piece composed by French pianist Richard Clayderman. Released in 1977, the piece is characterized by its soft and gentle melody, intricate phrasing, and expressive dynamics. The song was an instant hit, quickly becoming one of Clayderman's most popular compositions and a favorite of music fans worldwide. Its timeless appeal and emotional resonance have made it a popular choice for weddings, romantic dinners, and other special occasions.
C G C° D° C G C° D°
C G C° D° C G C° D°
28. Clint Mansell - Lux Aeterna
Lux Aeterna is a powerful orchestral composition by Clint Mansell, best known from the film Requiem for a Dream. Translating to “eternal light,” the piece features a repeating string motif, driving rhythm, and dark, atmospheric textures. As the music builds, it conveys urgency, despair, and emotional intensity, reflecting themes of addiction, obsession, and inner turmoil. Widely used in films, trailers, and media, Lux Aeterna has become one of the most recognisable pieces of modern classical music.
(B A) G A A# G F D (B A)
29. Chopsticks, Celebrated Chop Waltz
(FG) G G (FG) G G (E G) G G (E G) G G
(D B) B B (D B) B B (C C°) C C
Get the full Chopsticks Waltz tab here.
30. Bach - Air on the G string
"Air on the G string" is a masterpiece composed by Johann Sebastian Bach, one of the greatest composers of all time. The piece is part of his Orchestral Suite No. 3 in D major and is named after the fact that the melody is played on the G string of the violin. The serene and graceful melody of the piece, combined with the rich harmonies, creates a soothing and uplifting effect on the listener. The piece has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and advertisements, making it one of the most recognizable and beloved classical pieces of all time.
(F F A) F E E (D F A) D C C
B (D° D°°) B ( E G) F E F
Get the full Air on the G String tab here.
31. Kenshi Yonezu - Lemo
The song 'lemon' sung by kenshi yonezu was released in 2018, it is a love song and the music video is very dark at the beginning and sad but soon turns into dancing, and positive words, the song is however in korean so in order to understand the song you will need to read the lyrics.
C°D°E° C° A D°BGE
BAG CGE DEF C°B C°
32. Brian Crain - Song for Sienna
Song for Sienna is a piano composition by Brian Crain. It's a heartfelt and tender piece dedicated to someone named Sienna, likely portraying deep emotions and feelings associated with her. The music carries a sense of beauty, longing, and perhaps even melancholy, evoking a journey of introspection and reflection.
(C° A A) E C° A E C° (A° F° F)
C° A° C° C° D° (E° C° C)
33. Happy Waltz
The happy waltz by Al Lethbridge is a folk song that was released in 2008 - the music is in the time signature is 3/4. Below is the tab so that you can play it on the kalimba with the letter or number notes.
A°, A° A°, A° G°, F° E°, E° F°, F° B, D° C°
G C° C° C° C° C° C°, E° E° E° E° E° E°
34. Yann Tiersen - Comptine d'un autre été: L'après-midi
Comptine d'un autre été: L'après-midi by Yann Tiersen, featured in the soundtrack of the film "Amélie," is a beautiful and evocative piano piece. The title translates to "Rhyme of Another Summer: Afternoon" in English. The song captures a sense of nostalgia and whimsy, reflecting the mood of the film and the character of Amélie herself. It conveys a feeling of introspection and wistfulness, inviting listeners to immerse themselves in the dreamy atmosphere of a lazy summer afternoon. The delicate melody and gentle rhythms create a sense of calm and tranquility, making it a poignant and emotionally resonant piece of music.
E B G B E B G B D B G B
D B G B D B F B D B F B
35. Aaron Copland - Fanfare for the Common Man
"Aaron Copland's "Fanfare for the Common Man" is a short, powerful orchestral piece composed in 1942 during World War II. It was written as a response to a request from conductor Eugene Goossens for a fanfare to honor the common man's contribution to the war effort. The fanfare opens with bold brass fanfares, symbolizing strength, courage, and the indomitable spirit of the common person. The music is characterized by its majestic and heroic themes, which evoke a sense of pride and unity. The rhythmic percussion adds an energetic pulse to the music, driving it forward with a sense of urgency and determination.
F A# F° A# F° D°# G°
D°# A# F° D°# G° A# A# D° F°
36. Two Steps From Hell - Heart of Courage
Heart of Courage by Two Steps From Hell is an epic and uplifting instrumental track that embodies themes of bravery, determination, and triumph. The song features a powerful and dynamic arrangement, characterised by its majestic orchestration, driving percussion, and soaring melodies. Its emotive tones create an atmosphere of strength and resilience, inspiring listeners to overcome obstacles and pursue their goals with courage and conviction. While the song doesn't have lyrics, its stirring melody suggests a narrative of resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity. The title "Heart of Courage" reflects the central theme of the piece, symbolizing the indomitable spirit and inner strength that is within each individual.
C°# C° C°# F° D°# C°#
D°# F° G°# D°#
37. Ludovico Einaudi - Nuvole Bianche
Nuvole Bianche by Ludovico Einaudi is a piano composition that captures a sense of emotional depth, introspection, and beauty. The title translates to "White Clouds" in English, and the song's serene melody and delicate piano arrangement evoke imagery of floating clouds against a clear sky. It conveys a feeling of tranquility and peace, inviting listeners to immerse themselves in moments of quiet reflection and contemplation. While the song doesn't have lyrics, its emotive melody suggests a range of emotions, from melancholy to hopefulness, as if each note carries a story or memory within it. It resonates with listeners on a deeply personal level, evoking feelings of nostalgia, longing, and serenity.
(E° E G) (F° F A) (E° E G) (D° D F) B
(E° E G) (F° F A) (G° G B) (G° G B)
38. Ludovico Einaudi - Una Mattina
Una Mattina by Ludovico Einaudi is a serene and introspective piano piece that captures the mood of a peaceful morning. The title translates to "One Morning" in English. The music is gentle and soothing, evoking a sense of tranquility and contemplation. It's often associated with moments of reflection or calm, with its minimalist melody and delicate harmonies creating a serene atmosphere.
A D° A D° A D° A D° A E° A
A D° A A D° A D° E F A C° E°
39. Max Richter - On the Nature of Daylight
On the Nature of Daylight by Max Richter is a poignant and emotionally charged instrumental composition. The piece features a recurring motif played by strings, evoking a sense of melancholy and introspection. The music builds gradually, layering additional instruments and textures to create a unique sound. The title suggests a contemplation of the passage of time and the transient nature of life, while the music itself conveys a range of emotions, from sadness to hope.
(G° B E) (F°# D° D) (D° G B) (E° C° C)
(G° B E) (F°# D° D) (D° G B) (E° C° C)
40. Howard Shore - The Breaking of the Fellowship
The Breaking of the Fellowship is an orchestral score by Howard Shore from The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring. The piece underscores the pivotal moment when the Fellowship begins to divide, marking a turning point in the story. Featuring sweeping orchestration, choral elements, and dynamic rhythms, the music conveys urgency, sorrow, and determination. Though instrumental, its powerful melody reflects themes of sacrifice, friendship, and resilience, making it one of the most emotionally impactful tracks in the Lord of the Rings soundtrack.
E A G G G A
D° E° F° E° D° C°
42. Rush E
Rush E is a high-energy techno remix inspired by the main theme from the video game Counter-Strike. Known for its fast-paced beat, driving bassline, and intense electronic rhythm, the track mirrors the adrenaline and urgency of first-person shooter gameplay. Although instrumental, its energetic melody captures the excitement of virtual combat and competitive play, making Rush E popular among Counter-Strike fans and electronic music enthusiasts alike.
E° E° E° E° E° E° E° E° E° E° E°
E° E° E° E° E° E° E° E° E° E° A C°
The Only Kalimba Songbook You'll Ever Need
The fastest way to build confidence and technique is by playing real music. The Kalimba Songbook is a focused collection of 80 expertly arranged tabs, designed specifically for beginners and developing musicians who want to bypass the long theory sections and get straight into making music. This songbook removes frustration by giving you clean, easy-to-read tablature that guides you. This resource is your direct path to unlocking a wide range of popular tunes.
