Find Your Instrument Size
Choosing the right size instrument is very important in any orchestra student's success! We are here to help you find the student's best fit. Please call us at 1-800-779-0242 if you have any questions.
Here are sizing instructions for Violin, Viola, Cello, and Bass:
VIOLIN
Follow these steps to find your perfect fit:
If you have the violin available that you are trying to size to the student, simply check it against the player's arm. Have the student hold the violin up on their left shoulder and reach their left arm out to wrap their fingers around the scroll. If the violin fits, the student should be able to wrap most of their fingers around to the top of the scroll and maintain a slight bend in their arm.
If you are ordering online or over the phone, you will need to measure the player's arm length. Follow these instructions for the most accurate size:
Use the sizing chart to choose the correct size from the measurement. Always choose the smaller size if the student is in-between sizes. A larger instrument will hinder the student’s ability to play properly. The deciding factor is if the student is able to or very close to playing the 4th finger. If they can reach this fingering the violin will be usable.
Violin Sizing Chart
- Extend the arm fully and perpendicular to the body with the palm facing up.
- Measure from the base of the neck to the middle of the palm.
- If you are between sizes, size down.
|
Size |
Arm Length |
Typical Age |
|
1/16 |
14"–15" |
3–5 Years |
|
1/10 |
15"–16" |
3–5 Years |
|
1/8 |
16"–18" |
3–5 Years |
|
1/4 |
18"–20" |
4–7 Years |
|
1/2 |
20"–22" |
6–10 Years |
|
3/4 |
22"–23" |
9–11 Years |
|
4/4 |
23" and up |
12+ Years |
Viola
You can use the same method as violin to size for viola.
With the student’s left arm fully extended and palm facing up, place a measuring tape at the base of their neck and measure the distance to the center of their palm. Use the chart provided to determine the best fit based on this measurement.
Viola Sizing Chart
- Extend the arm fully and perpendicular to the body with palm facing up.
- Measure from the base of the neck to the middle of the palm.
- If you are between sizes, size down.
|
Size |
Arm Length |
Typical Age |
|
1/8 |
14"–15" |
3–5 Years |
|
1/4 |
15"–18" |
5–7 Years |
|
12" |
18"–20" |
7–9 Years |
|
13" |
20"–22" |
8–10 Years |
|
14" |
22"–23" |
9–12 Years |
|
15" |
23"–25" |
11–13 Years |
|
15.5" |
26"–27" |
12–14 Years |
|
16" |
27"–28" |
14+ Years |
|
16.5" |
28" and up |
14+ Years |
Cello
The most important part of sizing a cello is the total height of the student. You will want to measure the full height. If the player’s height falls between sizes, size down. To ensure accurate sizing, we recommend having a professional size the student in person.
Cello Sizing Chart
Measure the player’s full height
|
Size |
Height |
Typical Age |
|
1/10 |
3' |
3–4 Years |
|
1/8 |
3'–3'6" |
4–6 Years |
|
1/4 |
3'6"–4' |
5–7 Years |
|
1/2 |
4'–4"6" |
7–11 Years |
|
3/4 |
4'6"–5' |
9–15 Years |
|
4/4 |
5' and up |
15+ Years |
Bass
The most important part of sizing a bass is the total height of the student. You will want to measure the full height. If the player’s height falls between sizes, size down. To ensure accurate sizing, we recommend having a professional size the student in person.
Bass Sizing Chart
Measure the player’s full height
|
Size |
Height |
Typical Age |
|
1/4 |
4'6"–5' |
9–12 Years |
|
1/2 |
4'10"–5"4" |
11–15 Years |
|
3/4 |
5'3" and up |
15+ Years |
