Stringed Instrument Sizing

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What size violin, viola or cello do I need? Stringed instrument sizing is very important when choosing a violin, viola, cello and upright bass (double bass).

string instrument sizing

While the string instrument measuring methods provided below aren’t 100% accurate, they serve as a helpful guide to determine the size when renting or buying online.  

Violin,Viola

Choosing the right size violin is crucial, especially for beginners. The appropriate size ensures comfort and ease of play. Here’s a general guide on how to choose the correct size for a violin:

  1. Measure Arm Length:
    • The most common method for choosing a violin size is by measuring the length of the player’s arm. This is typically done with the arm fully extended and the palm facing up.
    • Measure from the base of the neck (where the neck meets the shoulder) to the center of the palm. This distance should correspond to the appropriate violin size.
  2. Use Size Charts:
    • Violin size charts are available online and in most music stores. These charts correlate the player’s arm length to the suitable violin size.
    • Common violin sizes include 1/16, 1/10, 1/8, 1/4, 1/2, 3/4, 7/8, and 4/4 (full size). A 4/4 size is suitable for adults and older children with a fully extended arm.
  3. Try Different Sizes:
    • If possible, try playing violins of different sizes to see which one feels most comfortable.
    • Hold the violin under your chin and check if you can comfortably reach the scroll without straining your arm. Your left hand should be able to reach the scroll with ease while maintaining a relaxed posture.
  4. Consider Age and Height:
    • While arm length is a primary factor, age and height can also provide general guidelines. Younger children may start with smaller sizes and gradually move up as they grow.
    • If the player is between sizes, it’s often better to choose the smaller size initially to avoid discomfort.
  5. Seek Professional Advice:
    • If possible, consult with a violin teacher, a luthier (a violin maker or repairer), or a knowledgeable music store professional. They can provide valuable guidance based on their experience.
  6. Comfort and Control:
    • Ensure that the chosen size allows the player to comfortably hold and control the instrument. If the violin is too large, it can be challenging to maintain proper technique.
  7. Consider Playing Style:
    • Different playing styles and genres may influence the size preference. For classical music, a full-size violin is common, while fiddlers might prefer a slightly smaller size for ease of maneuverability.

Remember that individual preferences and comfort play a significant role in choosing the right size violin. It’s crucial to find a balance between the recommended size based on measurements and what feels right for the player’s comfort and playing style.

Cello

Choosing the right size cello is important for comfort and ease of play. Here’s a guide on how to select the appropriate cello size:

  1. Measure the Player’s Height:
    • The most common method for choosing a cello size is by measuring the player’s height. The cellist should be able to sit comfortably with their feet flat on the floor while holding the cello.
  2. Refer to Cello Size Charts:
    • Cello sizes typically range from 1/10 to 4/4 (full size). Full-size cellos are suitable for adults and older children. For younger players, refer to cello size charts that correlate the player’s height to the appropriate cello size.
  3. Consider Age and Arm Length:
    • Younger cellists may start with smaller sizes and gradually move up as they grow. However, height is a more critical factor than age.
    • Arm length can also be considered, but it is often less precise than height. The player should be able to comfortably reach the lower bout (rounded part) of the cello with their left hand while sitting.
  4. Try Different Sizes:
    • If possible, try playing cellos of different sizes to determine which one feels most comfortable. Check for ease of reach and overall comfort while sitting.
  5. Seek Professional Advice:
    • Consult with a cello teacher, a luthier (a cello maker or repairer), or a knowledgeable music store professional. They can offer guidance based on their experience and help you find the right size.
  6. Consider Playing Style and Genre:
    • Different playing styles and genres may influence the size preference. Classical cellists typically use full-size cellos, while some players in other genres might choose slightly smaller sizes for maneuverability.
  7. Comfort and Control:
    • Ensure that the chosen size allows the cellist to hold and control the instrument comfortably. A cello that is too large can lead to discomfort and challenges in maintaining proper technique.
  8. Evaluate Sound Quality:
    • While size is crucial, also consider the sound quality of the cello. A properly sized cello should produce a resonant and balanced sound. It’s advisable to play different instruments and listen to their tonal qualities before making a decision.

Remember that individual preferences and comfort are key factors in choosing the right size cello. It’s essential to find a balance between the recommended size based on measurements and what feels right for the cellist’s comfort and playing style.

Stringed Instrument Sizing – Violin Sizing By Arm Measurement
( Measure from the base of neck to the middle of the left hand palm )

If you continue to use a violin that does not fit you, it can cause discomfort in playing, as well as pain in the arms, shoulders, and waist. Therefore, it is crucial to purchase the right size for yourself.

The measurement method is as follows:

  1. Keep your hand facing upward.
  2. Stretch your arm out to the side.
  3. Measure the length from the side of your neck to the center of your palm.

To minimize errors, it is essential to align the angle between your arm and body as close to 90 degrees as possible.

The most ideal size is when, in the playing position, the end of the violin’s head is located at the center of the palm, and when you bring your hand up, the entire head fits into your hand.

Here is a size chart for a quick and easy measurement.

23 1/2″ and Up – 4/4 Violin
22 1/4″ – 3/4 Violin
20 1/2″ – 1/2 Violin
18 1/2″ – 1/4 Violin
17″ – 1/8 Violin
15 1/2″ – 1/10 Violin
14 1/4″ and Under – 1/16 Violin

A violin fits if you can reach the notes comfortably with your left hand when holding the violin in the correct playing position. You should also be able to wrap your left hand comfortably around the curve of the scroll with a little bit of bend still left in your arm.

Stringed Instrument Sizing – Viola Sizing By Arm Measurement

( Measure from the base of neck to the middle of the left hand palm )

27 1/4″ and Up – 16.5″ Viola
26 1/2″ – 16″ Viola
25 1/2″ – 15.5″ Viola
25″ – 15″ Viola
23 1/4″ – 14″ Viola
22″ – 13″ Viola
20 1/4″ – 12″ Viola
18 1/4″ and Under – 11″ Viola

Viola sizes are defined by measuring the reverse side length from the side of the button to the center line at the base. Violas of between 16 and 16½ inches (40.6 to 42cm) are classed as large-sized and suitable for most adults. Our viola sizes are available in the standard and most commonly played sizes.

Cello Sizing By Student’s Height

62″ and Up –  4/4 Cello
54″ – 62″ – 3/4 Cello
48″ – 54″ – 1/2 Cello
44″ – 48″ – 1/4 Cello
Under 44″ – 1/8 Cello

Stringed instrument sizing

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stringed instrument sizing

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