Violin sizes: a quick guide
A violin that's too big is hard to hold and play in tune. Here's how to find a good starting size.
How to measure
Ask the player to stand and hold their left arm straight out to the side, palm up. Measure from the side of the neck to the middle of the palm.
| Arm length | Violin size | Typical age |
|---|---|---|
| 60 cm or more | 4/4 (full size) | About 11 to adult |
| 56 to 60 cm | 3/4 | About 9 to 11 |
| 51 to 56 cm | 1/2 | About 7 to 9 |
| 47 to 51 cm | 1/4 | About 6 to 7 |
| 44 to 47 cm | 1/8 | About 5 to 6 |
| Under 44 cm | 1/10 or 1/16 | About 3 to 5 |
If a measurement falls between two sizes, choose the smaller one. Teachers' preferences vary, so ask your teacher too.
What comes with a student violin
Most student violins come as an outfit with a bow, a case and rosin. A shoulder rest makes holding the violin far more comfortable and is worth adding.
Growing players
Children often move up a size every year or two. Ask us about moving to the next size when the time comes.