Interview With Karolina Protsenko (Talking About Lindsey Stirling) – Dance, Violin, Inspiration
Karolina Protsenko, the young violinist who has captivated the world with her street performances and heartfelt covers, is more than just a musician—she’s a rising star blending music, movement, and magic in a way few artists can. In this exclusive interview, Karolina opens up about one of her biggest inspirations: Lindsey Stirling, the world-renowned violinist and dancer who revolutionized the modern classical crossover genre.
With her signature grace, Karolina shares her journey, her admiration for Lindsey, and how the fusion of violin and dance has shaped her unique path in the world of music.
Q: Karolina, your performances are so full of energy and emotion. Who inspired you to combine violin and dance?
Karolina: Thank you so much! One of my biggest inspirations is Lindsey Stirling. I remember the first time I saw her video—I think it was Crystallize—I was just blown away. She was dancing and playing the violin at the same time, and I had never seen anything like it. It was so magical! From that moment, I thought, “Wow, I want to do that too.”
Q: What is it about Lindsey Stirling that speaks to you the most as a fellow violinist?
Karolina: Her creativity. She doesn’t just play music—she tells stories through her violin and her movements. She makes the violin cool, and she connects with her audience in such a powerful way. I love how she mixes classical music with electronic and pop sounds. It showed me that you can be different and still be successful, maybe even because you’re different.
Q: Do you remember the first time you tried dancing while playing?
Karolina: (laughs) Yes! It was really hard at first. I had to think about so many things—playing in tune, keeping rhythm, and moving all at once. But it was so much fun! I practiced a lot in front of the mirror, and I watched Lindsey’s videos over and over to learn how she did it so effortlessly. It took time, but I loved every minute of it. Now, when I perform on the street, I try to let the music move me naturally, just like she does.
Q: You’ve performed so many beautiful covers. Have you ever played one of Lindsey Stirling’s songs?
Karolina: Yes! I’ve covered a few of her songs like Shatter Me and Elements. They are so much fun to play and perform. Lindsey’s music has so much energy and emotion. When I play her music, I feel like I’m stepping into her world. It’s really special.
Q: How has Lindsey influenced your musical journey beyond just performance?
Karolina: She taught me to be brave. Lindsey’s story is so inspiring. She was rejected early in her career, but she didn’t give up. She believed in herself and kept working hard, and now she’s one of the most famous violinists in the world. That reminds me that I don’t have to be perfect. I just have to keep growing and doing what I love. She also talks a lot about being true to yourself, and I really try to live by that.
Q: Your own performances are very expressive, not only musically but emotionally. Do you think Lindsey helped shape that side of your artistry too?
Karolina: Definitely. She shows how powerful it is when music comes from your heart. When I watch her perform, I see someone who isn’t just playing for the audience but playing with the audience. She connects through her eyes, her smile, and her energy. I try to do the same. Even when I’m performing on the street, I want every person walking by to feel something. Whether it’s joy, hope, or just a moment of peace.
Q: You’re often seen smiling and dancing while playing—how do you maintain that positivity?
Karolina: I just love what I do! When I play the violin, it makes me so happy. And seeing people smile or stop to listen gives me even more energy. I think that’s something I learned from Lindsey too. She always looks like she’s having the best time on stage. She inspires me to enjoy the moment and share that joy with others. Life is beautiful, and music helps me celebrate that.
Q: Have you ever had the chance to meet Lindsey or talk to her?
Karolina: Not yet, but it’s one of my biggest dreams! I would love to meet her and maybe even play with her one day. That would be amazing! I hope she sees one of my videos someday. I think I would just cry tears of joy if that ever happens! (laughs)
Q: If you could say one thing to Lindsey Stirling, what would it be?
Karolina: I would say thank you. Thank you for showing the world that the violin can be powerful, exciting, and fun. Thank you for being brave and following your dreams. And thank you for inspiring girls like me to pick up the violin and believe in our own magic.
Q: What advice would you give to young musicians who look up to you the same way you look up to Lindsey?
Karolina: First, follow your heart. Play the music you love and don’t be afraid to be yourself. Practice a lot, but also make time to enjoy it. And remember, you don’t have to be like anyone else—you are special just the way you are. If you love music and you play from your heart, people will feel that.
Q: Where do you see your music going in the future? Do you hope to create original pieces like Lindsey does?
Karolina: Yes, I’ve started working on my own music, and I hope to release original songs in the future. I want to tell my own stories through music, just like Lindsey does. I also want to keep dancing and performing live all over the world. Maybe even have big shows with lights and choreography—just like Lindsey’s concerts! I think music can change the world, and I want to be part of that change.
Conclusion
In a world where so many young artists chase fame, Karolina Protsenko stands out for her sincerity, passion, and unshakable love for music. Her admiration for Lindsey Stirling goes beyond mere fandom—it’s a story of inspiration fueling creativity across generations.
Karolina reminds us that mentorship doesn’t always happen in person. Sometimes, a performance online can spark a lifetime of artistry in someone watching from afar. Lindsey Stirling did that for Karolina—and now Karolina is doing the same for millions of fans around the world.
As her journey continues, one can only imagine how many future musicians will one day name Karolina Protsenko as their inspiration.
Don’t miss out on her latest stunning performance—watch the full video below and experience the magic for yourself! 👇👇