We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Course image
Yuliyan Stoyanov, DMA

Hello. This is Dr. Yuliyan Stoyanov.

I would like to welcome and congratulate you for your desire to learn to play the violin. With my courses you can fulfill your dream of becoming an advanced violinist from the comfort of your own home. Regardless of your innate talent, age, or physical capabilities, if learning to play the violin is your heart’s desire, I'll help you attain that goal.

Read more

Hello. This is Dr. Yuliyan Stoyanov.

I would like to welcome and congratulate you for your desire to learn to play the violin. With my courses you can fulfill your dream of becoming an advanced violinist from the comfort of your own home. Regardless of your innate talent, age, or physical capabilities, if learning to play the violin is your heart’s desire, I'll help you attain that goal.

Let me tell you a secret - you already know how to play the violin. All the movements we utilize to hold the violin or draw the bow on the strings, you already know how to do. They are part of your daily life. The only thing you need is to make a connection between these movements and the movements required to play the violin. Let me be the teacher who will guide you every step of the way to mastery and will show you the true beauty of playing the violin.

Don't hesitate. There is no better time than now. First little steps will soon become great strides toward your success.

theVIOLINcode is designed for you to get results:

  • Short lessons, so you can focus easily

  • Gradual introduction to each technique

  • Detailed explanations

  • Exercises in "call and response" fashion

  • Structured lesson plan

The biggest challenge for you as a beginner violinist is not simply to imitate your teachers in order to learn how they play the violin...

…It is to understand how to use your own body, to find the most comfortable and healthiest playing style for yourself.

I will work with you to help you discover it, making your violin journey even more exciting.

Over 4,500 students in more than 100 countries all over the world.

I am so grateful for your incredible support. It gives me the inspiration to keep working and provide high-quality violin instruction.

Check out what the others are saying about the course and come to see for yourself how much more efficient and exciting your violin journey could be:

  • "This was the first useful course on the violin I've seen on Udemy. Others were either too basic or too slow-going or not technical enough. But this one was awesome in that he goes over the proper form for holding the bow, good posture and holding the violin and does a very good job of building up fundamentals."

  • "This course is perhaps the most useful I have seen for the violin. It is full of very specific and practical information that helps the student really understand the process."

  • "Exercises are deceivingly simple but very effective."

  • "This course covers the subject from scratch the instructor is as clear as possible and his knowledge and passion give me the excitement to learn and study and to bring it into my classroom for my students."

  • "Wow, I love the technical depth that he's gone into, so far, for the violin's anatomy and how the human physiology affects playing the violin."

  • "This Course is extremely thorough and helpful. Would recommend it to anyone."

  • "Great course, really enjoyed it. Excellent coverage of the fundamentals. I thought the step-by-step process of learning the songs at the end by doing them a small chunk at a time was a great process. Thank you so much for this course, I'm looking forward to your next level violin course. "

  • "The instructor is very clear in his explanations and is highly positive in his teaching approach which motivates me to practice the violin every day. His experience with this instrument is clearly visible in the way he gives attention to even the very small details. Overall, a great course for a beginner like me."

  • "It helped open my eyes to how the violin works and how to hold the bow in a more comfortable way. I also learned new songs quicker than I usually do because of the clear teaching methods involved. I feel I am getting better at the violin already."

  • "This a great course, very informative. With information not only about the violin, but anatomy as well. Amazing. "

  • "Blown away by how well he breaks down all the gazillion technicalities you need to keep in mind while playing. HIGHLY recommended."

  • "Very detailed, never realized there was so much to learn in just holding the bow."

  • "Very concise explanations about the process of using the bow and also how the left hand is used on the finger board. Excellent course so far."

  • "Wow, this course is wonderful. I had been doing everything I am so glad i got this course. The instructor couldn't possibly be better. "

  • "I was able to really understand what he was doing and why. Great teacher."

  • "Very clear and comprehensive explanation. Just the right amount I needed."

  • "Over and above all my expectations."

  • "It was very informative. Your teaching method is very thorough and interesting. I have been teaching myself since my bow arm wrist has been smashed about 1-5 years ago, and I am learning more than ever, I am very happy. "

  • "Very easy to follow; super helpful for a beginner because of engaging instructor."

  • "I love this course. I have never picked up a violin before taking this and am surprised how successful I have been. Yuliyan takes everything step by step and is encouraging. If you've ever wanted to learn to play, this is the course for you. The lectures are informative, quick and easy to follow. It's also so great that you can go back and watch them as often as you need to. You will not be disappointed. "

What you need to take this course

VIOLIN AND A BOW

You can take the first module without an instrument, but for the rest, naturally, you need a violin and a bow. Your first instrument should be easy to play, don't worry so much about value and sound. Head to your local violin shop or get a cheap violin online. Don't make this a reason to postpone your violin dream.

Hear the sound of everything around you, feel the rhythm inside you, think about all the music you will be able to play and get going with the step-by-step lessons.

PRACTICE

The more you practice, the better you will play and the easier it will come along. Use every minute on hand to fiddle with the violin and you will discover that it can become your good friend very quickly.

What you don't need to take this course

Violin and a bow

Yes, you read this right. You can start with the first module armed with a simple pencil. I have found that many times students develop stiff bow hold because at the beginning they are afraid of dropping the bow. They hold it tightly and this becomes a habit later on. Until you learn to secure the bow without a tight grip, we will be using a pencil. This way you will develop a light and flexible bow hold.

Any knowledge about the violin

You don't need any previous knowledge about the violin. We start from the very beginning. However, if you have some previous experience and feel that the course is moving too slowly for you, simply watch these parts in a faster speed of the video player. Or, my recommendation is always to review carefully the basics, as they come back again and again.

Note-reading skills

Even if you don't know how to read notation you will be able to learn and practice all the exercises and songs in the courses. The added bonus here is that while you practice the songs by ear, you will be learning the notation subconsciously, as it is included on the screen, pointing out to each note we play. You will see what I mean, it's pretty cool.

Stop wasting your precious time searching the Internet for more random instructional videos. You deserve a better teacher than a violinist who would simply show you where to put your fingers. Let me be a true coach for you and help you achieve great results in the least amount of time.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Anyone can learn to play the violin, if the tricky concepts are presented in a simple way.
  • Start learning some of the most popular tunes on the violin and impress your friends.
  • Learn to read music notation gradually, without effort, just by practicing the simple exercises in the course.
  • Build a very intuitive and healthy violin and bow hold. no other course will teach you such a comprehensive and proper way for playing the violin!
  • Learn reliable practice strategies, which you can use to learn new songs.

Syllabus

Learn the parts of the violin and get a step-by-step guidance on the bow hold setup.
Welcome to theVIOLINcode!

Learn the names of the different parts of the violin and what happens when we draw the bow on the strings.

Read more

Learn the correct position of the right hand thumb and why it is the foundation of a good bow hold.

Learn the position of the rest of the fingers on the bow. Follow a step by step practice session.

Join me for a few exercises for getting a relaxed bow hold, as I explain the role of each finger.

Learn about the difference between the "Russian" and "Franko-Belgian" bow holds.

Join me in a few exercises developing the flexibility of the wrist.

Learn the main elements of the bow arm movement and practice them with me.

They say "The best way to learn something, is to teach it to someone else"! And this is so true! So, take your phone and make a two-three minute video, explaining the most exciting thing you have learned so far. Teach someone how to hold the bow, or why the position of the thumb is important, or the main parts of the bow arm movement. Then send it to your friends to see their reaction, or simply keep it to compare with the videos you will make later and follow your progress easier.

Learn about the different posture traditions.

By finding the correct body alignment we are facilitating the process of playing and can get better results with less effort. Join me in a few exercises to discover the correct body alignment and get the most natural posture.

Join me in two fun exercises to warm up and strengthen the shoulders.

Step by step guide on how to hold the violin.

Learn and practice the important aspects of the violin hold: rotation of the left arm, the angle of the wrist and the position of the fingers.

Time to make another video. Teach someone how to find the most natural posture, or how to rotate the left arm before they lift the violin, or something else you were glad to learn in this section. Send it to your friends to surprise them how well you are doing. Make sure you keep it for comparison for later, you need videos like that one to remind you where you started.

Learn about the different ways we can change the sound of the violin: sounding point, bow speed, and bow pressure. Troubleshoot some of the most common problems with the sound when you start playing for the first time.

Join me in finding the correct angle of the violin and a position where the left arm can be comfortably held in the air for longer periods of time.

And here we go playing! Starting in the middle of the bow, in the same manner we used in the exercises from lecture 8.

Learn the specifics of playing in the lower half of the bow.

Challenge your coordination and learn how to use the entire length of the bow, starting with rests between each note.

In this lecture you will be presented to two of the basic bow strokes - portato and legato, and the difference between them. You will learn how to fluently connect all parts of the bow in continuous bow strokes without the rests.

Time to make another video. Don't forget: "The best way to learn something, is to teach it to someone else"! Teach someone how we can play softly on the violin, or how we make a louder sound; show them how to play with a straight bow, while moving the arm in different directions. When you initially bought the course, you were provided with a link, on which you could upload your videos for me to revise. Send me your best video and I will personally look at it, pointing out the things you do well and the areas you need to improve. Share it with your friends to inspire them with your persistence in learning how to play this beautiful instrument.

Learn how to place the fingers on the strings. Join me in a fun exercise on how to feel the fingers in their full length, starting all the way from the wrist.

Learn to play the notes on A string, paying special attention on the little finger.

Learn some shortcuts on how to remember the notation easier. Discover the importance of preserving the same frame of the fingers on each string.

It is time for another video. Teach someone the names of the notes on A string, G string, D string, and E string. Show them how we align the left arm, so the little finger is right above the place it is going to press on the string. Compare this video with the ones you took at the beginning and see how much you have advanced. Share it with your friends and tell them to get ready, very soon you will be playing your first songs!

Great job learning your first songs! Now teach someone to play them in a video. Play each song section by section and explain how to learn it faster, before performing the entire tune at the end. Then, compare the video with the ones you made earlier in your progress. Watching your previous videos will remind you of some important aspects you might have overlooked, but will also make you realize what a long way you have gone. Share it with your friends, you deserve a word of praise!

Hey, congratulations for getting all the way to here! Use this backing track to practice the song along. Take your time and learn it well in the slower version, before you go up to the performance tempo. Most importantly, have fun:).

Good job keeping up! You are almost there! Stay at this tempo until you feel comfortable with it and feel relaxed performing it.

You did it! You are the real deal! Practice with the click track until you feel you got the song down and it feels easy.

Congratulations! I am so proud of you! Enjoy the song and enjoy yourself performing it! Fun times!

CONGRATULATIONS! You have completed your course! Not only you now know a few songs, but you have learned a very healthy and intuitive way of playing the violin. Some things may be harder than others and may need more time to feel effortless, but you have a great foundation and you can use it to learn more songs and develop even more flexibility in your body and fluency with the instrument. Don't forget to share a video with me, so I can give you my comments, or with your friends, to impress them with your new skill! I am honored you have chosen me as your teacher. I hope you enjoyed the course as much as I did making it.

We all enjoy completing quizzes! This one covers the topics all the way from the beginning, so you can check if you remember the most important parts of the course. Great job!

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Breaks down complex techniques into smaller, manageable steps, which allows students to build a solid foundation without feeling overwhelmed
Emphasizes developing a comfortable and healthy playing style, which can prevent injuries and promote long-term enjoyment of playing
Includes exercises in a "call and response" fashion, which can help students learn by ear and develop their musical intuition
Requires a violin and bow for most of the course, which may be an initial investment for some students
Encourages students to record and share videos of their progress, which may be uncomfortable for some learners
Teaches the "Russian" and "Franko-Belgian" bow holds, which may not be relevant to all beginners

Save this course

Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
Save

Reviews summary

Beginner violin fundamentals & technique

According to learners, theVIOLINcode course offers a largely positive experience for absolute beginners. Students praise the instructor's clear and detailed explanations, finding the approach easy to follow. A major strength highlighted is the strong focus on fundamental techniques, including proper posture and bow hold, with reviewers appreciating the depth of coverage on the physical aspects of playing. The step-by-step structure is considered highly effective, making the learning process accessible and building confidence. Many find the exercises effective, even if seemingly simple, and appreciate learning to play simple songs early on.
Exercises are simple yet produce results.
"Exercises are deceivingly simple but very effective."
"I also learned new songs quicker than I usually do because of the clear teaching methods involved. I feel I am getting better..."
Goes deep into body mechanics and anatomy.
"Wow, I love the technical depth that he's gone into, so far, for the violin's anatomy and how the human physiology affects playing the violin."
"Very detailed, never realized there was so much to learn in just holding the bow."
"Very concise explanations about the process of using the bow and also how the left hand is used on the finger board."
Step-by-step path is perfect for beginners.
"Yuliyan takes everything step by step and is encouraging."
"This course covers the subject from scratch..."
"The lectures are informative, quick and easy to follow."
"Very easy to follow; super helpful for a beginner because of engaging instructor."
Course builds a solid base in posture and hold.
"Excellent coverage of the fundamentals."
"...he goes over the proper form for holding the bow, good posture and holding the violin and does a very good job of building up fundamentals."
"It helped open my eyes to how the violin works and how to hold the bow in a more comfortable way."
"...you have learned a very healthy and intuitive way of playing the violin."
Ideal starting point for novice players.
"If you've ever wanted to learn to play, this is the course for you."
"I have never picked up a violin before taking this and am surprised how successful I have been."
"Overall, a great course for a beginner like me."
Instructor explains complex ideas simply.
"The instructor is very clear in his explanations and is highly positive in his teaching approach which motivates me..."
"Very clear and comprehensive explanation. Just the right amount I needed."
"I was able to really understand what he was doing and why. Great teacher."
"The instructor couldn't possibly be better."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in theVIOLINcode | Beginner Violin Lessons | Units 1 - 5 Bundle with these activities:
Review Basic Music Theory
Strengthen your understanding of musical concepts like rhythm, pitch, and notation, which will make learning violin easier.
Browse courses on Music
Show steps
  • Review the basics of rhythm and time signatures.
  • Study the notes on the treble clef.
  • Practice identifying intervals and chords.
Read 'Violin For Dummies'
Gain a broader understanding of violin playing and maintenance before diving into the course.
Show steps
  • Read the sections on violin anatomy and care.
  • Study the chapters on basic playing techniques.
  • Review the tips for effective practice.
Daily Bowing Exercises
Improve bow control and consistency through repetitive exercises, reinforcing techniques taught in the course.
Show steps
  • Practice détaché strokes on open strings.
  • Work on legato bowing across multiple strings.
  • Focus on maintaining a straight bow path.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Practice with a Peer
Learn from and motivate each other by practicing together and providing feedback.
Show steps
  • Find a peer who is also learning violin.
  • Practice scales and exercises together.
  • Provide constructive feedback on each other's technique.
Record and Analyze Your Playing
Identify areas for improvement by critically evaluating your own performance.
Show steps
  • Record yourself playing a scale or exercise.
  • Listen back and identify areas where you can improve.
  • Focus on specific aspects like intonation or rhythm.
Explore 'The Art of Violin Playing' by Carl Flesch
Delve into advanced techniques and musicality to enhance your violin playing skills.
View Flesch: Scale System on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read sections on tone production and vibrato.
  • Study the chapters on interpretation and style.
  • Apply the concepts to your own playing.
Explore Advanced Bowing Techniques
Expand your bowing skills by learning advanced techniques from online tutorials.
Show steps
  • Search for tutorials on spiccato and sautillé bowing.
  • Practice the techniques slowly and deliberately.
  • Incorporate the new techniques into your repertoire.

Career center

Learners who complete theVIOLINcode | Beginner Violin Lessons | Units 1 - 5 Bundle will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Private Music Instructor
As a Private Music Instructor, you will guide students of all ages and abilities on their musical journey. TheVIOLINcode may help you develop a better understanding of musical instruction. The course is designed to help beginners build a solid foundation in violin technique. By developing these basics you may be well placed to lead a career as a Private Music Instructor. Understanding the fundamentals of violin playing may inform your teaching. You will be able to adapt your teaching strategies to meet the unique needs of each student. Further, the course may help you break down complex concepts into simple terms.
Violin Teacher
A career as a Violin Teacher begins with a strong foundation in violin playing technique. theVIOLINcode course may give you a head start to becoming an expert violinist. You may become a better teacher because you will have a more intuitive understanding of the best way to play the violin. The course emphasizes a healthy approach to playing, which is essential for avoiding injuries and ensuring long-term playing ability. As a Violin Teacher, you will need to demonstrate proper form and technique to your students. theVIOLINcode's detailed explanations and structured lesson plan may let you be an awesome teacher. The course's focus on breaking down complex techniques into short, manageable lessons may allow you to teach students of varying skill levels.
Orchestral Musician
A career as an Orchestral Musician requires a high level of proficiency on your instrument. The ability to play in tune, with good tone quality, and in time with the ensemble is essential. This course may help you on your journey to becoming an orchestral musician. TheVIOLINcode course focuses on helping beginner violinists take their first steps towards mastery. You will learn healthy, efficient playing habits from the start, that may translate in performance as an Orchestral Musician. The course focuses on posture, body movement, and ergonomics to make your violin journey enjoyable. Further, exercises designed to improve tone and intonation may be useful in learning a repertoire of orchestral pieces.
Session Musician
A career as a Session Musician demands versatility and adaptability. You must quickly learn and perform various musical styles, often under pressure. theVIOLINcode course may help you get started with your dream to become a session violinist. This course emphasizes building a solid foundation in violin technique, including bow hold, posture, and sound production. You will be able to develop essential skills. theVIOLINcode helps you to learn to play in tune and with good rhythm, which are essential skills for a Session Musician. The course's emphasis on gradual progression and clear explanations may help you quickly master new techniques and musical styles.
String Quartet Member
As a String Quartet Member, you will collaborate with other musicians to perform chamber music at a high level. theVIOLINcode may help you develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in this challenging but rewarding career. The course emphasizes proper technique, intonation, and tone quality, which are essential for blending with other instruments in a quartet. Through theVIOLINcode, you will learn about phrasing and dynamics may help you communicate effectively with your fellow quartet members. In addition, the course may help you develop the discipline and practice habits necessary to maintain a high level of performance.
Music Therapist
A career as a Music Therapist involves using music to address patients’ physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs. While you are typically required to have an advanced degree for this role, theVIOLINcode may help you discover if you truly would like to pursue music therapy. The course could provide you with insight into the therapeutic benefits of music, particularly for stress reduction and emotional expression. This course emphasizes the importance of proper technique and healthy playing habits. Also, the course's structured approach to learning and practicing may help you develop patience and empathy, which are essential qualities for a Music Therapist.
Conductor
A Conductor leads orchestras, choirs, and other musical ensembles. TheVIOLINcode may help you develop a first-hand understanding of what it is like to play in an orchestra. While you are typically required to have an advanced degree for this role, theVIOLINcode is a great place to start. theVIOLINcode encourages learning and practice. As a Conductor, you will be required to learn and practice your craft. The course helps you learn to play in tune. theVIOLINcode also has many tips about how to succeed as a violinist. Some of these tips can be passed down to your musicians.
Violin Maker
To become a Violin Maker, you will gain a deep understanding of the instrument's construction and acoustics. TheVIOLINcode may help jumpstart this training. As you progress through the course, you will gain a practical understanding of the instrument. theVIOLINcode's emphasis on proper technique and sound production may provide you with valuable insights into how different design elements affect the instrument's tone and playability. In addition, the course may help you develop an appreciation for the craftsmanship and artistry involved in creating a fine violin.
Film Score Composer
A career as a Film Score Composer involves creating original music for films, television shows, and other visual media. While you may need an advanced degree for this role, theVIOLINcode may give you experience playing the Violin that can inform your compositions. The course focuses on helping beginner violinists take their first steps towards mastery. You will learn healthy, efficient playing habits from the start, that may translate in performance as a Film Score Composer. The course focuses on posture, body movement, and ergonomics to make your violin journey enjoyable. Further, exercises designed to improve tone and intonation may be useful in creating a unique sound.
Arts Administrator
As an Arts Administrator, you will manage the operations of a performing arts organization or venue. While an Arts Adminstrator is typically required to have an advanced degree, theVIOLINcode may help you appreciate the complexity of music. The course will give you a respect for what it takes to advance musical performance. You may gain insights into the challenges faced by musicians. theVIOLINcode's focus on building fundamental skills and developing a disciplined practice routine may translate into effective management strategies. theVIOLINcode may help you connect with musicians and create a positive and supportive environment.
Music Journalist
As a Music Journalist, you will write about music for newspapers, magazines, websites, or other media outlets. theVIOLINcode may help you develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for classical music. The course will provide you with insights into the technical aspects of violin playing. These details may add new expertise to your writing. theVIOLINcode may also give you a network of fellow violin students. These peers could be interviewed to further enrich your writing.
Talent Agent
A Talent Agent represents musicians and other performers, helping them find work and negotiate contracts. theVIOLINcode may help you be discerning and distinguish between excellent violinists and mediocre players. The course could provide you with insight into the day-to-day life of a violinist. This course emphasizes the importance of proper technique and healthy playing habits. theVIOLINcode may also help you develop an appreciation for the hard work and dedication that it takes to succeed as a professional musician.
Music Store Sales Associate
As a Music Store Sales Associate, you will assist customers in finding the right instruments and accessories to meet their needs. TheVIOLINcode may help you develop the product knowledge and customer service skills necessary to excel in this role. The course will help you understand the different parts of the violin, bow, and other accessories may allow you, as a Music Store Sales Associate, to answer customer questions and make informed recommendations. In addition, the course may provide you with the enthusiasm and passion for music that will resonate with customers.
Instrument Repair Technician
As an Instrument Repair Technician, you will be responsible for maintaining and repairing musical instruments. theVIOLINcode may help you develop some of the fundamental knowledge and skills required for this career. theVIOLINcode's detailed explanations of the violin's parts and construction may help you understand how the instrument works. You will be able to diagnose and repair common problems. theVIOLINcode's emphasis on proper technique and sound production may help you assess the quality of repairs and ensure that instruments are functioning optimally.
Music Librarian
As a Music Librarian, you will manage and organize music collections for libraries, archives, or other institutions. It is typically required to have an advanced degree for this role. theVIOLINcode may help you develop a greater understanding of music history and theory. The course may help you understand the subtle nuances of music. theVIOLINcode's structured approach to learning and practicing may help you develop the organizational skills and attention to detail that are essential. theVIOLINcode may help you foster a love of music that will inspire you to preserve and share musical knowledge.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in theVIOLINcode | Beginner Violin Lessons | Units 1 - 5 Bundle.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the violin, covering everything from choosing an instrument to basic playing techniques. It's a great resource for beginners who want a more in-depth understanding of the instrument. It can be used as a reference text throughout the course. It also offers helpful tips and advice for practicing and improving your skills.
Classic treatise on violin technique and interpretation. While advanced, it offers valuable insights into the nuances of violin playing. It is more valuable as additional reading than as a current reference for beginners. It provides a deeper understanding of musicality and expression.

Share

Help others find this course page by sharing it with your friends and followers:

Similar courses

Similar courses are unavailable at this time. Please try again later.
Our mission

OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.

Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.

Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.

Affiliate disclosure

We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.

Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.

Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.

© 2016 - 2025 OpenCourser