What size instrument do I need?

Question

Does the size of the instrument matter? Will I have to change sizes as my child grows?

Answer 1

​This is best assessed by experts at a string instrument shop, so the student needs to be present when the instrument is acquired. Different types of chin and shoulder rests will also impact a particular student’s comfort when placing the instrument into playing position. These are strong reasons to avoid online purchases.

Yes, if a student starts with a violin smaller than a 4/4 or full size, he or she will need to size up at some point (especially petite adults may max out at 7/8 rather than full size).

Violas come in sizes of inches, rather than fractions like violins, and max out at 16.5 inches. As with violins, young students who have not finished growing will need to size up as they grow.