What size violin do I need? – Hidersine Orchestral Instruments and Accessories

Choosing the right violin involves several factors, such as where to purchase it, how much to spend, and what to prioritize. One crucial aspect that often gets overlooked is ensuring the violin is the correct size for the player. Violins come in various sizes to accommodate different ages and body types. Let’s take a closer look at finding the perfect fit for you.

How to Determine the Right Violin Size

Violins are available in eight main sizes, depending on the length of their bodies, excluding the neck and scroll. The smallest size is 1/16, measuring only 9 inches or 23 cm, and the sizes gradually increase to 1/10, 1/8, 1/4, 1/2, 3/4, 7/8, and finally, the full-size 4/4 violin, which measures approximately 14 inches or 36 cm.

Ensuring a Proper Fit

To determine if a violin fits correctly, consider two essential factors:

1. Comfortable Reach: When holding the violin in the correct playing position, you should be able to reach the notes comfortably with your left hand. Additionally, your left hand should wrap comfortably around the scroll’s curve while allowing a slight bend in your arm.

2. Suitable Weight: Most adults and some children aged 10 and above will require a full-size violin. However, the size of the violin should be based on the length of your arm and your comfort level. The violin should not feel too heavy, and you should be able to grip the top of the fingerboard with your hand while easily bending your arm at the elbow. If an adult feels more comfortable playing a slightly smaller 7/8 violin, that choice is perfectly acceptable.

Here is a handy chart showcasing the violin sizes and their corresponding lengths from neck to wrist:

Remember, if you’re uncertain, don’t hesitate to seek guidance from a helpful retailer who can assist you in making the right choice. Purchasing a complete outfit, including a violin, bow, rosin, and case, can save you the hassle of worrying about the correct sizes for each component.

Hidersine violins offer a wide selection of sizes and complete outfits. Each instrument has been thoroughly inspected and set up in our UK service workshops, so you can buy with confidence, knowing that everything is the right size. You can take your new instrument to your lesson, ready to play right away.

It’s important to note that if you’re purchasing a violin for a child, their growth spurts may quickly render the instrument too small. In such cases, you might consider skipping a size (allowing room for growth) as long as the child can comfortably play fourth finger notes. Consulting with your child’s violin teacher can provide valuable insight since each child and violin is unique.

• Play the viola or cello? We have guides for you too.

• What Size Viola Do I Need?

• What Size Cello Do I Need?