How to Choose the Right Violin Size

Violins come in many different sizes. Most sizes are for children, and young violin students are expected to change sizes frequently as they grow. Getting the right size violin is important for making sure that children can comfortably reach the strings and hold the violin in place. Choosing the wrong size can hamper a student's ability to learn the instrument as well as hinder developing an appreciation for the violin.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Tape measure

1. Take an arm measurement. Have the student put his left arm out to the side, as straight as possible. Measure only the left arm unless a teacher has said otherwise. Take the measurement from the bottom of the neck straight out to the palm of the hand. End the measurement in the center of the palm.
2. Take the measurement twice to be sure of the exact number of inches. Round the measurement up to the nearest half inch.
3. Choose a size 1/16 if the measurement was 14 inches or less. Choose the size 1/10 if the measurement was 15 inches or between 14 and 15 inches.
4. Choose the size 1/8 if the measurement was between 15 inches and 16.5 inches. Choose the ¼ size for measurements between 16.5 and 18.5 inches.
5. Use a ½ size violin for a measurement of between 18.5 inches and 20 inches. Use a ¾ size if the measurement is between 20 and 22 inches. Choose the ¾ if you are a small adult and the full size is too large.

Tips & Warnings

• Some violin makers make a 7/8 size that is for professional adult female violinists. This can be a hard size to find, but it is worth looking for if the full is too large and the 3/4 is too small.