Choosing the Right Instrument Size
Choosing the right size instrument doesn’t have to be difficult. Depending on the instrument, you can use one of two factors to pick the right size: length of arm or height.
How to Measure:
When measuring for cello or bass, use height. If the height falls between sizes, size down or try different sizes to see what’s most comfortable. Proportions are key in finding the right cello size; height alone may not be the perfect factor. You can correlate height to the sizing chart below.
When measuring for a violin or viola, use arm length. You may want additional help for this method. First, extend your left arm palm up, making sure not to overextend. It should be at about 90° from your side. Then, take a yardstick and place it at the base of your neck, where the collarbone and neck meet. The measurement will be where the center of your palm is. Using a handy sizing chart, you can convert your measurements into an instrument size.
Instrument Sizes:
The standard sizes for violin are 1/16, 1/10, 1/8, 1/4, 1/2, 3/4, and 4/4 (full size). After full size, violins don’t normally get bigger. Adult violinists typically play 4/4 instruments.
Unlike violins, viola sizes are measured in inches. Standard sizes include 12”, 13”, 14”, 15”, 15 ½”, and 16”. Larger violas are usually custom-made. Most adult violists play around a 16” size, but arm and finger length can vary.
Cello sizing is similar to violin; it’s measured in fractions rather than inches. Common sizes include 1/4, 1/2, 3/4, and 4/4 (full size). Other fractions like 7/8 exist but are less common.
For bass, sizes include 1/4, 1/2, 3/4, and 4/4, but bass sizing differs from violin. While a 4/4 bass exists, it’s rare for a player to “size up” into one, as the extra reach doesn’t always justify the sound difference. The 3/4 bass is the most common “full size” option.
For instrument sizes, most adults play the “full size” option, but measuring ensures the best fit. Feel free to stop by the store to get measured or look at size-up instruments—no appointment required.
Violin
| Size | Measurement in inches | Typical age |
|---|---|---|
| 1/16 | 14”-15” | 3-5 yrs |
| 1/10 | 15”-16” | 3-5 yrs |
| 1/8 | 16”-18” | 3-5 yrs |
| 1/4 | 18”-20” | 4-7 yrs |
| 1/2 | 20”-22” | 6-10 yrs |
| 3/4 | 22”-23” | 9-11 yrs |
| 4/4 | 23” and up | 12+ yrs |
Viola
| Size | Measurement in inches | Typical age |
|---|---|---|
| 12” | 18”-20” | 7-9 yrs |
| 13” | 20”-22” | 8-10 yrs |
| 14” | 22”-23” | 9-12 yrs |
| 15” | 23”-25” | 11-13 yrs |
| 15.5” | 26”-27” | 12-14 yrs |
| 16” | 27”-28” | 14+ yrs |
| 16.5” | 28” and up | 14+ yrs |
Cello
| Size | Height | Typical age |
|---|---|---|
| 1/10 | 3’ | 3-4 yrs |
| 1/8 | 3’ – 3’6” | 4-6 yrs |
| 1/4 | 3’6” – 4’ | 5-7 yrs |
| 1/2 | 4’ – 4’6” | 7-11 yrs |
| 3/4 | 4’6” – 5’ | 9-15 yrs |
| 4/4 | 5’ and up | 15+ yrs |
Bass
| Size | Height | Typical age |
|---|---|---|
| 1/4 | 4’6” – 5’ | 9-12 yrs |
| 1/2 | 4’10” – 5’4” | 11-15 yrs |
| 3/4 | 5’3” and up | 15+ yrs |