Viola Size Guide
The ideal size viola for a child is that which allows a 90° angle at the elbow when holding the viola in a playing position. We recommend using a flexible tape measure to measure the distance between the base of the neck and the left wrist. The hand should be extended and the arm held out perpendicular to the body with the shoulder relaxed. Take this measurement and use the table below to determine the correct instrument size. We strongly discourage playing on instruments with ‘growing room’ as this can have a detrimental effect on technique, form and posture.
*Viola sizes over 15” should be determined by personal and teacher preference.
The following table provides a guide to selecting a suitable instrument size. Other factors may be taken into account, including teaching method, and teacher and player preference. Instrument sizes may vary within their defined fractional size; this guide applies to Stringers’ range of instruments, and is intended to be as comprehensive as possible, but not definitive.
| Age | Distance 'A' | Viola Size |
|---|---|---|
| 5-7 | 16 1/2"-18" | 1/8 Viola Conversion |
| 6-8 | 18"-20" | 1/4 Viola Conversion |
| 8-10 | 20"-21 1/2" | 1/2 Viola Conversion |
| 10-12 | 21 1/2"-23" | 3/4 Viola Conversion |
| 12+ | 22"-24" | 4/4 Viola Conversion |
| 12+ | At least 23" | 14" Viola or 4/4 Viola Conversion |
| 12+ | At least 24" | 15" + |