How to size your child for a Violin
Violin & Viola Sizing Guide
How to Measure Arm Length
Step 1: Have the student extend their left arm straight out to the side
Step 2: Measure from the base of the neck to the center of the left palm
Step 3: Use the measurement below to find the correct instrument size
| Arm Length | Violin Size | Viola Size | Typical Age |
|---|---|---|---|
| 14″ to 15½” | 1/16 | — | 3-5 years |
| 15½” to 17″ | 1/10 | — | 3-5 years |
| 17″ to 18½” | 1/8 | 10″ | 4-6 years |
| 18½” to 20½” | 1/4 | 11″ | 5-7 years |
| 20½” to 22½” | 1/2 | 12″ | 6-10 years |
| 22½” to 24″ | 3/4 | 13″ | 9-12 years |
| 24″ and up | 4/4 (Full) | 14″ | 12+ years |
Size Equivalents
Violin
- 1/8
- 1/4
- 1/2
- 3/4
- 4/4
Viola
- 10″
- 11″
- 12″
- 13″
- 14″
Note: Violas also come in larger sizes (15″, 15½”, 16″) for advanced students and adults. These larger sizes are typically chosen by students who have been playing for several years and understand their preferred size based on comfort and sound preference.
Still unsure? Select “Not Sure” in the size dropdown and we’ll help you determine the correct size during delivery or pickup.
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How to size your child for a Cello
Cello & Bass Sizing Guide
How to Measure for Cello
Step 1: Have the student sit at the edge of a chair with knees bent at 90°, feet flat on floor
Step 2: Measure arm length from base of neck to wrist
Step 3: Also measure the student’s height for reference
How to Measure for Bass
Step 1: Measure the student’s height while standing upright with good posture
Step 2: When properly sized, the bridge should be at the height of the right hand knuckles, and the nut should be near eye level
| Student Height | Arm Length (Neck to Wrist) |
Cello Size | Bass Size | Typical Age |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 36″ – 40″ | 13″ – 15″ | 1/16 | — | 3-4 years |
| 40″ – 44″ | 15″ – 17″ | 1/10 | — | 4-5 years |
| 44″ – 48″ | 17″ – 20″ | 1/8 | 1/16 | 5-6 years |
| 48″ – 52″ | 20″ – 23″ | 1/4 | 1/10 | 6-8 years |
| 52″ – 56″ | 23″ – 26″ | 1/2 | 1/8 | 8-11 years |
| 56″ – 60″ | 26″ – 27″ | 3/4 | 1/4 | 11-15 years |
| 60″ – 64″ | 27″ + | 7/8 | 1/2 | 15+ years |
| 64″ + | 27″ + | 4/4 (Full) | 3/4 | Adult |
Important Notes
Cello
- Seated measurement
- Based on arm length
- 7/8 size available
- More size options
Bass
- Standing measurement
- Based on height
- 3/4 is adult standard
Cello Sizing: The upper edge of the cello should rest in the center of the chest (sternum), and the C peg should be slightly behind the left ear. Knees should lightly grip the lower bouts with corners slightly above the inside of the knees.
Bass Sizing: Most adults play 3/4 size bass, even professional orchestra players. It’s better to choose a slightly smaller bass than one that’s too large.
Still unsure? Select “Not Sure” in the size dropdown and we’ll help you determine the correct size during delivery or pickup.
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🎻 Spencer Brook Strings
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