Have you ever wanted to learn how to play the violin? Come and join this fun course and find out how. BYO violin or hire. Textbook required.
Violin for Beginners
Course Description
Have you always wanted to learn the violin but didn’t know where to start?
This fun and welcoming course is designed for complete beginners and will guide you through the basics of playing the violin and reading music, step by step.
With simple, clear instruction and hands-on practice, you'll begin developing proper technique, rhythm, and musicality from your very first lesson.
Whether you bring your own violin or choose to hire one, you’ll be supported as you build your skills and confidence in a relaxed, encouraging environment.
The violin has a rich and fascinating history, with roots stretching back to the 16th century. Over time, it has become one of the most beloved and versatile instruments in the world, featured in everything from classical orchestras to folk, jazz, and modern music.
Learning to play the violin not only improves coordination and concentration but also enhances emotional expression and a deep appreciation for music.
By the end of the course, you’ll be able to play simple pieces and experience the joy of creating music on this beautiful instrument.
Course Structure
In Lesson 1, students will be introduced to the basics of violin playing, starting with how to hold the violin and bow correctly. They’ll learn how to place the bow on the strings and produce their first sounds. This lesson also introduces the letter names of the open strings and simple playing patterns to help build confidence and familiarity.
In Lesson 2, students will review what they learned in the first class, then take the next step by placing fingers on one string to create different notes. They'll begin to play simple tunes using letter names, helping them connect finger placement with pitch in a fun and accessible way.
In Lesson 3, the focus shifts to reading music notation. Students will revise their finger patterns from the previous lesson and learn how to read actual notes on the musical staff. They'll practise playing familiar tunes, this time by reading written music instead of just letter names.
In Lesson 4, students will continue building their skills by learning a new finger and note on the same string. They’ll practise short exercises and learn a new tune that features the new note, reinforcing both reading and playing skills.
In Lesson 5, students will review what they've learned and expand their repertoire by learning new tunes. They'll also be introduced to a second string, along with its finger positions and corresponding notes, opening up more musical possibilities.
In Lesson 6, students will practise playing on two strings, using what they’ve learned to play simple tunes and a full 8-note scale. This helps develop smoother string crossing and greater confidence in finger coordination.
In Lesson 7, students will learn new tunes that combine both strings and additional notes. They’ll also begin working on a third string, learning new notes and applying them in short pieces to strengthen their musical range.
In Lesson 8, the course concludes with a review of the previous three lessons, followed by the introduction of a new bowing rhythm. Students will apply everything they've learned so far—notes, strings, and rhythms—to play more expressive and dynamic tunes.
Course Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, students will be able to:
- Hold the violin and bow correctly and produce a clear sound
- Identify and play the open strings using simple patterns
- Use fingers on the fingerboard to play basic tunes
- Read and play notes from both letter names and standard music notation
- Play simple pieces on one, two, and eventually three strings
- Understand basic rhythms and begin using varied bowing techniques
- Perform a simple 8-note scale
- Gain confidence and enjoyment in making music with the violin.
Course Requirements
Students are required to bring:
- A violin
- Shoulder rest
- Pencil, paper and eraser
Please bring your own violin if you have one. Alternatively, if you need to hire one, violins are available from:
Size Music
74 Glen Osmond Rd, Parkside
Phone: (08) 8373 3370
Cost: $60 for 3 months
Ian Vayne
Phone: 0448 000 433
Cost: $20 per month
Be sure to mention you're enrolled at the WEA, or feel free to shop around.
If your violin requires new strings, the tutor highly recommends Dominant Strings for their quality and performance.
The tutor will be available to assist with tuning 15 minutes prior to the start of each class.
Students are expected to bring a well-maintained violin that is appropriately set up for their use. The tutor will not have time during class to perform adjustments or setup.
If you are unsure about the condition or suitability of your instrument, Size Music can provide assistance and advice.
Course Textbook
Please purchase a copy of the required textbook before the course commences. It is available from most music stores for approximately $17.
All For Strings Book 1 – Violin by Gerald E. Anderson, published by Kjos (Neil A.) Music Co, US ISBN: 9780849732225.
Your Tutor is Verity Addams
Verity Addams started teaching at WEA in 2015.
Verity has been playing the violin since childhood and became a freelance violinist whilst at Adelaide University where she obtained a Bachelor of Music degree and a Diploma of Education.
Soon after, she started her violin teaching career with the Education Department's Instrumental Music Programme and also continued doing freelance work.
Verity then began teaching privately after leaving the Instrumental Programme and in 2006 became the violin teacher at the Blackwood Music School where she continues to teach.
Her freelance work includes playing in orchestral bands backing Dione Warwick, Shirley Bassey, Electric Light Orchestra, Bread, Peter Ustinov and orchestras for touring international ballet companies, Gilbert and Sullivan Society, musicals at the Festival Theatre and numerous classical quartet/trio jobs at corporate and social functions.
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