Tips for Choosing the Best String Instrument Size

Tips for Choosing the Best String Instrument Size

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It is the start of a new school year!

If you are beginning your year, perhaps that means you are starting beginners on a new instrument or switching students from one instrument to another. This is definitely the case for me and students in my programs.

I recently sent out information to my students' families about renting instruments for orchestra and how to select the best instrument size for their child. 

In this blog post, I will discuss some tips for selecting the proper instrument size for your child and what to look out for when finding an instrument.

 Why Choosing The Right Instrument Size Matters

Selecting the proper size instrument is very important for playability and the comfort of your child. An instrument that is too large (or too small) will make learning how to play that much more difficult and frustrating. Additionally, the incorrect size instrument could cause discomfort and create poor habits. 

Therefore, take the time to get your child the proper sized instrument and one in solid working order. This will only help them be more successful.

Ask Your Child’s Orchestra Teacher or Local Music Store

If you are not sure of the correct size instrument your child may need - definitely speak with their orchestra teacher or a local reputable music shop. They will be able to advise you and help you and your child select the right size. Additionally, there are many fantastic instrument sizing guides online that can also be very helpful. 

Fractional Sizes

String instruments come in a variety of sizes. For example, violins range from 1/32 (8’’ body) up to a 4/4 full size violin (14’’ body). 

Fractional size instruments allow children the ability to start learning an instrument at a young age. As they grow, they can move into a larger instrument. 

Sizing for Violin and Viola - Measuring Arm Length

One method of sizing for the correct violin or viola is to measure your child’s arm length. To do this, have your child extend their left arm out with their palm facing upwards. Stretch a measuring tape from their collar bone to the center of their palm.

There are many great sizing guides online that you can reference. Here is a quick snapshot of what sizing by arm length might look like for violin and viola.

Violin Sizing
  • Arm length of 20’’ - 22’’ (age 6 - 10) will fit a ½ size violin. 
  • Arm length of 22’’ - 23’’ (age 9 - 11) will typically fit a ¾ size violin. 
  • Arm length of 23’’ (age 12 and over) will typically fit a 4/4 or full size violin. 
Viola Sizing
  • Arm length of 18’’ - 20’’ (age 7 - 9) would typically fit a 12’’ viola.
  • Arm length of 20’’ - 22’’ (age 8 - 10) would typically fit a 13’’ viola.
  • Arm length of 22’’ - 23’’ (age 9 - 12) would typically fit a 14’’ viola.
  • Arm length of 23’’ - 25’’ (age 12 - 15) would typically fit a 15’’ viola.

Sizing for Violin and Viola - A Second Method

This is another commonly used sizing method used by teachers that you can do if you are testing instruments at a store. 

First, have your child extend their left arm out with their palm facing upwards. Second, place the violin or viola in playing position under their chin. Finally, your child should be able to wrap their hand comfortably around the scroll of the instrument. If your child is unable to wrap their hand around the scroll, the instrument is too large for the at the moment - consider a smaller size. 

Cello and Double Bass Sizing

To find the appropriate size cello for your child, try the following method.

First, have your student sit on the front of a chair with their feet flat on the floor. Second, extend the endpin of their cello until the shoulder of the cello reaches their sternum as they are sitting upright. The cello should fit between their knees at the curve below the bottom corners. The instrument should feel comfortable in seated position. Try the following height guides as well:

  • Students between 4’ and 4’ 6’’ should typically fit a ½ size cello.
  • Students between 4’ 6’’ and 5’ should typically fit a ¾ size cello.
  • Students over 5’ feet would be comfortable with a full size 4/4 cello. 

Basses come in ¼, ½, ¾, and 4/4 size. A ¾ size bass is considered a full size bass.

Sizing on the bass isn’t an exact science either. The student should be able to comfortably stand with the instrument in playing position with the endpin extended. The left hand should be comfortable in first position. The nut of the bass should be at about eye level. Try the following height guides as well. 

  • Students who are 4’ 6’’ or below should be comfortable playing a ⅛ size instrument.
  • Students who are 4’ 6’’ - 5’ 2’’ should be comfortable playing a ¼ size bass.
  • Students who are 5’ 2’’ - 5’ 6’’ should be comfortable playing a ½ size bass. 
  • Students and adults 5’ 6’’ and above should be comfortable with a ¾ size bass.

Conclusion

I hope you find these sizing tips helpful and it allows you to select the most appropriate size instrument for your student or child.