Beginners...
 What
Size?
Bowed instruments are made in different sizes
so that people of all ages can learn to play. Getting the proper size
is important.
An
instrument that is too big or too small can be extremely difficult to
play. Most adults use a
full-size instrument.
Determining
the size violin or viola you need The
best way is to come into Allegro Music so that we can measure for the correct size
and ensure a
proper fit. Or, you can ask your teacher.
If you want to determine the size yourself, here's how:
Measuring
with a yardstick or tape measure
Place the end of the yardstick at the base of the player's neck, right above the
collar bone. Fully extend the player's left arm in front of the body, palm
up (don't stretch, just relax). Record the measurement to the middle of the palm.
| Violin |
|
Viola |
| 4/4 Size |
over 23½" |
Full Size (16½"+) |
over 27" |
| 3/4 Size |
22¼" - 23½" |
|
Large (16") |
26½" -
27" |
| 1/2 Size |
20¼" - 22¼" |
|
Medium (15½") |
25½" - 26½" |
| 1/4 Size |
18½" - 20¼" |
|
Small (15") |
25 - 25½" |
| 1/8 Size |
17" - 18½" |
|
Intermediate (14") |
23¼" - 25" |
| 1/10 Size |
15½" - 16¾" |
|
Junior (12" or 13") |
22" - 23¼" |
| 1/16 Size |
14" - 15½" |
|
|
|
This is a good guide, but sizes may vary between makers and countries.
For example, a 1/2-size
German-made violin may not be exactly the same size as a
1/2-size Chinese-made violin. You already have an
instrument. Is it the correct size?
With your arm fully
extended, you should be able to wrap your fingers around to the top of the scroll, as shown in the
picture. This means the instrument will be comfortable to play
with your elbow bent and fingers on the fingerboard.
 A few
more things...
For beginners, it is
easier to learn on an instrument that is a little too small than one
that is too big. Young kids may need to go
through a couple of sizes as they grow -- it's more economical to rent an
instrument until they play a full size. To size a cello or
double bass, please call us or come by the store.
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