What Size String Instrument Do You Need?

Orchestral string instruments come in many sizes. Unlike other instruments, it truly matters what size violin, viola, cello, or double bass you play. The correct size of instrument allows you to successfully learn proper technique and finger positions. On the other hand, an ill-fitting instrument can lead to physical discomfort, difficulty in playing, and an overall discouraging experience.

This Sweetwater guide will help you figure out what size violin, viola, cello, or double bass you should get for yourself or your child. By following these recommendations, you’ll find a comfortable instrument that’s easy to learn with and play on.

Quick Start: Sizing Charts for Violin, Viola & CelloHow to Measure Size for Violin & ViolaMethod 1: Measuring the Player’s Arm LengthMethod 2: Testing the Instrument in PersonMethod 3: Choosing a Size Based on the Player’s AgeHow to Measure Size for CelloMethod 1: Using the Player’s Height & Arm LengthMethod 2: Testing the Cello in PersonMethod 3: Choosing a Size Based on the Player’s AgeHow to Measure Size for Double BassTips for Choosing the Right Size InstrumentSpeak with Your Music TeacherWhen in Doubt, Choose the Smaller SizeMake Sure You Have the Correct BowWhen Should You Step Up to the Next Size?

Quick Start: Sizing Charts for Violin, Viola & Cello

Generally speaking, you can determine what size violin or viola you or your child needs based on arm length. Fully extend the left arm to the side with the palm facing upward (see example below). Then, take a measurement from the neck to the center of the palm. After that, use the size chart below to determine the best fit.

For cellos, most teachers will recommend sizes based on the player’s height. You can also determine cello sizes by using the same arm-length method used for violins and violas.

How to Measure Size for Violin & Viola

Violin sizes range anywhere from full-size all the way down to 1/32-size, which are made for toddlers. But generally speaking, most young players start on something between a 1/8- and 3/4-size instrument. Likewise, most teenagers and adults will be comfortable with a 4/4-size violin.

Violas are unique compared to other orchestral string instruments. Instead of measuring sizes in quarter- or eighth-size increments, viola sizes are measured in inches. Most standard sizes range between 12-inch and 16.5-inch instruments. For reference, most 6- or 7-year-olds will start on a 12-inch viola. Meanwhile, an average adult will be fine on a 15.5-inch or 16-inch viola.

You can use three standard methods to find the right size of violin or viola for a player. Let’s go over each one in detail.

Method 1: Measuring the Player’s Arm Length

This is the easiest way to quickly and accurately find what size violin or viola you or your child needs. All that’s required is a measuring tape or yardstick.

As outlined in the above Quick Start guide, extend the player’s left arm to the side with their palm facing up. Then, using a yardstick or measuring tape, measure from the neck to the center of the palm. After that, use the above sizing chart to determine the best fit.

Method 2: Testing the Instrument in Person

Try this method if you have access to a violin at home. You or your child’s music teacher or a local music store might also be able to provide an instrument.

First, place the violin on the student’s shoulder. Then, have the student extend their left arm past the scroll, which is the decorative end of the instrument. If their hand can comfortably wrap around the scroll and touch the peg box, then it’s usually a good size for them. If they can’t wrap their hand around the scroll, then you need a smaller instrument.

For further confirmation, have the student hold the violin in the playing position. If their arm makes roughly a 90-degree angle, then it should be a good size for them. If the angle is more than 90 degrees, and they can’t wrap their hand around the scroll, then that violin is probably too big for them. And if the angle is less than 90 degrees, then you might want to double-check with the next size up.

Method 3: Choosing a Size Based on the Player’s Age

If you don’t have access to measuring tools or sizing instruments, then you can still determine the correct violin or viola size based on the student’s age. It’s not nearly as accurate as the other two methods since size varies from person to person. But at the very least, it’ll give you a rough idea of where to start.

Here’s a handy table you can use to help you find a good instrument size based on age:

Age RangeViolin SizeViola Size4–6 Years1/8-sizeN/A6–7 Years1/4-size12-inch7–9 Years1/2-size13-inch9–12 Years3/4-size14-inchAverage Adults4/4-size15–15.5-inchLarge Adults4/4-size16-inch & Larger

How to Measure Size for Cello

Cello sizes typically range between full-size all the way down to 1/8-size instruments. Generally speaking, most young players start on something between a 1/8- and 1/2-size instrument. Many young teenagers are comfortable on a 3/4-size cello. Most players will upgrade to a full-size instrument by their late teens and use it throughout their adult years.

Method 1: Using the Player’s Height & Arm Length

By knowing how tall the player is, you can quickly and accurately figure out what size cello they need. Measure the student’s height, and then, determine the cello size based on the chart below.

Likewise, you can also choose a size based on the length of the student’s arm (similar to a violin or viola). Extend the player’s left arm to the side with their palm facing up. Then, measure the length between their neck and the center of their palm. Use the sizing chart below to determine the best fit. 

Method 2: Testing the Cello in Person

Testing a cello in person is a viable method to finding the best size for you or your child if you have a cello at home. You or your child’s music teacher or a local music store might also be able to provide an instrument.

First, have the player sit at the edge of a chair. Their feet should be flat on the floor with their legs bent at about a 90-degree angle. (Note: Younger children may need a smaller chair that accommodates proper learning and playing.)

Place the instrument between their legs and adjust the endpin so that the edge of the cello wraps around their left knee (see example below). The fingerboard should go over the left shoulder. The cello should also be leaning against the player at about a 45-degree angle.

Next, check where the cello is positioned compared to the player’s body:

The top edge of the cello’s body should be centered on the player’s chest.The C peg (the bottom string’s peg) should also be roughly in line with the player’s left ear.

If the cello lines up in all those positions, then it’ll be a comfortable fit for you or your child.

Method 3: Choosing a Size Based on the Player’s Age

If neither of the above methods is available to you, then you can still determine a good cello size based on the student’s age. It’s not nearly as accurate as taking measurements or sizing with an actual instrument, but it’ll give you a rough idea. Here’s a handy table to help you:

Age RangeCello Size4–6 Years1/8-size6–7 Years1/4-size7–11 Years1/2-size11–15 Years3/4-size15 Years & Older4/4-size

How to Measure Size for Double Bass

Like violins and cellos, double basses are measured in eighth- and quarter-size increments. That said, 3/4-size basses are typically recognized as “full-size” instruments for adults. True 4/4-size basses are actually quite rare.

Generally speaking, you can determine the best size for a double bass simply by checking the player’s height or age. Here’s a simple chart to help you out:

Age RangePlayer’s HeightDouble Bass Size5–7 Years3 Feet 6 Inches–4 Feet1/8-size7–9 Years4 Feet–4 Feet 6 Inches1/4-size9–13 Years4 Feet 6 Inches–5 Feet1/2-size13 Years & Older5 Feet & Up3/4-size

Tips for Choosing the Right Size Instrument

Using the above methods to find the right size instrument for you or your child should be easy for most people. But if you need extra help, then you can try out some of these suggestions.

Speak with Your Music Teacher

You or your child’s music teacher should be your first resource when choosing an instrument; they’ll have the most experience sizing instruments for players and are happy to help you and your child find the right one. They might also have preferences for specific instruments, brands, or setups. At Sweetwater, we’ll always defer to what your teacher says.

When in Doubt, Choose the Smaller Size

Sometimes, you’ll measure yourself or your child and find that you or they land in “in-between” sizes. When that happens, it’s best to choose the smaller size. While giving your child an instrument with “room to grow” is tempting, the larger instrument might be detrimental to their posture and technique. A smaller instrument size will allow them to play more comfortably without impeding their progress.

Make Sure You Have the Correct Bow

The size of your bow is equally as important as the size of the instrument itself. If the bow is too large or too small, then it’ll cause discomfort and playing issues. Most beginner instruments should come with an appropriately sized bow to match, but if you have a secondhand instrument, then you may want to double-check the bow (if any) that comes with it. If you need a replacement, then Sweetwater offers a large supply of bows in fractional and full sizes.

When Should You Step Up to the Next Size?

Some kids grow faster than others, so changing sizes largely depends on the individual player. With that said, we recommend stepping up to the next size about every other year. Do that until your student has grown into a full-size instrument.

Buy Your Next String Instrument from Sweetwater

Sweetwater has everything that a budding orchestral player needs, from the smallest violins to the most enormous double basses. We offer a wide selection of violins, violas, cellos, and double basses in fractional and full sizes, too, from teacher-approved brands. For help picking the right instrument, contact your Sweetwater Sales Engineer at(800) 222-4700.

Need Help Buying a Fractional Instrument? We Offer Rentals, Too!

We understand if you’re hesitant to pay full price for an instrument, especially if your child will only use it for one or two years. That’s why we offer instrument rentals in select states around the country. You can get the instrument you need right away while making smaller payments over time. And when your child is ready for the next size, we’ll help you make the switch.

To learn more or to get started, check out our Sweetwater Instrument Rental page or contact your Sweetwater Sales Engineer at (800) 222-4700.

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