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Orchestral Instrument Sizing Guide
Choosing the correct instrument (violin, viola, cello, or bass) size is essential for both you and your future orchestra star, as the right size makes handling and learning the instrument much easier. Orchestral instruments are available in different sizes, tailored to the player’s arm length. Grab a measuring tape and let’s get started!
If you're measuring for a child, have them stand up straight and extend their left arm out, parallel to the floor, with the palm facing up. Measure from the base of their neck to the heel of their palm, right above the wrist. Use this measurement to find the appropriate size on the chart below:
If you’re fitting a growing child, you'll probably need to measure and adjust the violin size every year or two to ensure it remains comfortable and suitable for their learning and performance. Don’t forget to take advantage of our convenient trade-in policy!
You can always stop by the store (no appointment needed) and one of out expert team members can fit you for the correct size.
You can always stop by the store (no appointment needed) and one of out expert team members can fit you for the correct size.
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A note for bass sizing: Orchestral basses (sometimes called the double bass, string bass, upright bass, etc) are a bit harder to correctly choose the correct size based on arm length alone. A general rule for sizing children is to choose a bass that is one size smaller than their violin size.
That being said, height, arm reach, and torso length all play a role in what size is correct, so we recommend being sized in-person here at the store or by an orchestra teacher so you can test out an actual instrument.
Basses come in several sizes like violins and cellos. However, VERY few people actually play on 4/4 basses. Most fully-grown adults will play on 3/4 size, whether they are 5'2" or 6'5". We carry basses in sizes 1/8, 1/4, 1/2, and 3/4.
That being said, height, arm reach, and torso length all play a role in what size is correct, so we recommend being sized in-person here at the store or by an orchestra teacher so you can test out an actual instrument.
Basses come in several sizes like violins and cellos. However, VERY few people actually play on 4/4 basses. Most fully-grown adults will play on 3/4 size, whether they are 5'2" or 6'5". We carry basses in sizes 1/8, 1/4, 1/2, and 3/4.