Updated StringSchool Violin Courses for 2026

November 26, 2025

At StringSchool, we are always working to strengthen the learning experience we offer. As our community continues to grow, we want to ensure that every learner is supported with a clear pathway, structured progression and thoughtful guidance at every stage.

With that in mind, we’re pleased to share a major update to our violin courses, coming into effect from January 2026. These changes bring a refreshed structure, clearer levels, and more personalised support for every learner.

A Refreshed Course Structure for 2026

From January, all courses will move to an updated framework designed to:

strengthen technical consolidation at Beginner and Intermediate levels
offer a wider and more engaging range of repertoire
allow learners to progress at a pace that suits them
provide greater clarity about what each level includes and where it leads next

Flexible, term-by-term content

Course content will now refresh each term. This allows learners to stay at the right level for longer while continuing to explore new material, reinforce key skills and build confidence before progressing.

Progression when you’re ready

Learners may now move to the next level as soon as all learning objectives have been achieved (subject to space), rather than only progressing between terms. This approach supports the varied pace at which adults naturally learn and helps ensure smoother transitions through the curriculum.

Introducing Learning Advisors

From 2026, every learner will be paired with a dedicated Learning Advisor. Their role is to help guide your progress, ensure that your pathway through the programme is well-matched to your goals, and provide personalised support throughout your studies.

The Updated Course Pathway for 2026

Below is the new, streamlined structure for StringSchool violin courses, with clearer prerequisites and learning goals at each stage.

Introductory Fundamentals Class

Prerequisites: None
Suggested commitment: 1–2 sessions

This class remains unchanged and continues to be our recommended starting point for adult beginners and restarters. It focuses on the essential fundamentals of violin playing and can be repeated for consolidation. Existing learners are welcome to attend as a refresher, free of charge.

Starter Violin Course (10 Weeks)

Replaces Course A

Prerequisites: None — suitable for complete beginners and returning learners
Suggested commitment: 1–2 terms

The Starter Violin Course introduces the essential foundations of violin playing. Learners establish posture and bow-hold, develop initial tone production, begin simple fingering and note-reading, and build basic rhythmic skills. This ensures a secure grounding before progressing to the Beginner level.

Beginner Violin Course (10 Weeks)

Replaces Courses B and C

Prerequisites: Completion of the Starter course, or ability to play 1-octave scales and arpeggios in G, D and A major
Suggested commitment: 2–3 terms

The Beginner course consolidates core technique, strengthens intonation and rhythm, and develops confidence in reading music. Learners extend bow control, work with additional scales, and study short pieces in a variety of styles. This level supports progress from early Grade 1 to around Grade 2 and prepares learners for Intermediate study.

Intermediate Violin Course (10 Weeks)

Replaces Courses D and E

Prerequisites: Completion of the Beginner course, or Grade 2 (any exam board)
Suggested commitment: 3–4 terms

The Intermediate course builds technical security and musical independence for learners with 1–2 years of experience. Learners refine intonation across extended finger patterns, develop a broader range of bowing techniques, and begin or continue early shifting and vibrato. Repertoire becomes more substantial and stylistically varied, supporting progress from roughly Grade 2 up to Grade 5.

Advanced Violin Course (10 Weeks)

Launching later in 2026

Prerequisites: Completion of the Intermediate course, or Grade 5 (any exam board)
Suggested commitment: 2+ years

The Advanced course is designed for players working from Grade 5 towards Grade 8 and Diploma level. Learners develop more sophisticated left-hand and bowing techniques, tackle demanding repertoire, and strengthen expressive and ensemble skills. This level complements ongoing one-to-one lessons and ensemble participation.

Looking Ahead

We’re really excited about these changes. The new structure provides clearer learning trajectories, more flexible progression, and enhanced support for every learner at every stage. Our goal is simple: to give you the best possible experience as you continue your musical journey.

If you have any questions about the updated course pathway or would like guidance on choosing the right level, please feel free to get in touch — we’d be very happy to help.

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