Not sure what size viola you need? Look no further, as we’re here to answer all your questions with our helpful guide on finding the perfect viola size for you!
Choosing the right size viola can be an important decision for the aspiring string player. Not only does size affect the sound produced by the instrument, but it also affects your ability to comfortably play it and enjoy the time you spend practising and performing.
To help you make an informed choice about which viola is right for you, let’s take a look at what size is best and how that measurement comes into play.
Best
Beginner Viola
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Overall: Good Sound & Durable
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Best Feature: Hand carved maple & spruce body
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TedScore™: 9/10
Best
intermediate instrument
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Overall: Super affordable instrument for an intermediate student
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Best Feature: Fully adjustable for height
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TedScore™: 8/10
Best
Viola Rosin
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Overall: Really great and affordable Rosin
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Best Feature: Low-dust and premium case
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TedScore™: 10/10
How is a viola measured?
It’s important that you have the correct size viola for your requirements. To do this, there are a few basic measurements that are taken from a viola to ensure it is the correct size for you.
The most common measurement used to determine the size of a viola is known as ‘body length’ and is measured in inches. This refers to the total length of the instrument (from tip to tip). The body length will usually range from 12 inches (smallest) up to 16 inches (largest).
Body and Neck Length
When purchasing a Viola, it’s important to ensure that you get the size that is right for you. To do this, you will need to measure the length of both your body, arm length and your neck.
Viola Sizes
Have your student stand with good posture and their left arm extended out to the side at shoulder height. Their arm should be extended naturally and not forced completely straight.
Gently place a tape measure or yardstick against the student’s neck and along the extended arm. Measure the distance in inches to the middle of the student’s palm.
Use the chart below to determine the appropriate size of viola the student needs. If the student is on the edge of two viola sizes, we recommend going with the smaller size.
Viola Size Chart
Measurement in Inches
| Age of Child (years) | Arm length (cm) | Viola size (fraction) |
|---|---|---|
| Under 6 | 50cm or less | Use ¼ size violin with viola strings |
| 6-7 | 50-56 | 12” (or half size violin with viola strings) |
| 7-9 | 56-57 | 13” (or ¾ size violin with viola strings) |
| 9-12 | 58-62 | 14” (or 4/4 violin with viola strings) |
| 10-12 or Small Adult | 62-64 | 15" |
| Adult | 63-66 | 15.5" |
| Large Adult | 66+ | 16-16.5" |
Measurement in CENTIMETRES
| Age of Child (years) | Arm length (cm) | Viola size (fraction) |
|---|---|---|
| Under 6 | 50cm or less | Use ¼ size violin with viola strings |
| 6-7 | 50-56 | 12” (or half size violin with viola strings) |
| 7-9 | 56-57 | 13” (or ¾ size violin with viola strings) |
| 9-12 | 58-62 | 14” (or 4/4 violin with viola strings) |
| 10-12 or Small Adult | 62-64 | 15" |
| Adult | 63-66 | 15.5" |
| Large Adult | 66+ | 16-16.5" |
Perfect Viola For Beginners
Finding the perfect viola for a beginner is not always an easy decision – and get the wrong size, and you’ll have problems down the line.
The size of an instrument makes a difference in how easily it can be played, which is why it’s important to choose an instrument size that suits your body size.
COMES WITH: Hard Case and Bow with Maple Bridge
FEATURES:
- Carved From Solid Tonewoods
- Ebony Pegs and Fingerboard
- Most Recommended Among Schools and Teachers
Stentor Student II
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- High-quality sound
- Available with other accessories
- Comes with Prelude strings
- Has maple sides and back
- Slightly higher price than some other brands but higher quality sound
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
COMES WITH: A backpack style case, Beechwood bow, and rosin
FEATURES:
- Hand-carved Canadian tonewoods
- Integral fine tuners ensure fast and efficient tuning
- Guarneri-style chin rest for a comfortable playing position
Student Viola by
Gear4Music
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Very affordable
- Lightweight and durable
- Available with other accessories
- The bow and strings will need to be replaced if used after beginner level
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
COMES WITH: A case, bow, and rosin
FEATURES:
- Durable ebony pegs and ebonised fingerboard
- Hand carved maple and spruce body
- Excellent beginner viola
Primavera 100
VIOLA OUTFIT
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- High-quality sound
- Three year warranty
- Looks great with a high gloss finish
- Slightly higher price than some other brands
- Sound is clear but somewhat limited
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
COMES WITH: A case, bow, and rosin
FEATURES:
- Durable ebony pegs and ebonised fingerboard
- Hand carved maple and spruce body
- Excellent beginner viola
Cremona SVA100
Viola Outfit
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- 4 Adjusters for fine-tuning
- Well made and robust
- Higher price than other brands
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
What Size Viola Do I Need?
Summary
For all aspiring violists, choosing the right size for you is crucial in order to get the most out of your instrument.
Whether you’re a beginner or a professional musician, selecting the proper size viola will ensure that you are able to play comfortably and produce the best sound.
In conclusion, finding the right-sized viola can make all the difference between comfortability and playability as well as in terms of tone production when executing music pieces.
Good luck, and remember to comment below!
The article adeptly outlines the criticality of choosing the correct viola size, which is paramount for both comfort and technique. However, it would have been beneficial if it included more about transitioning sizes as students grow and develop.
okay so how do i know if my viola’s too big or small? like are there signs i should look out for cause i think mine might be wrong for me
Look for signs of discomfort when playing, difficulty reaching notes smoothly, or general awkwardness holding the instrument. A properly sized viola should feel comfortable, and you should have easy access to the entire fingerboard.
What a wonderfully detailed guide for beginners like me! Choosing the right viola size feels less overwhelming now. I’m inspired to share my journey picking the perfect viola with my blog readers. Cheers for the clarity and encouragement!
The physics behind string instruments like the viola is fascinating, particularly how size affects sound. This article touches on important practical aspects for choosing a viola. However, an exploration into the acoustic science behind these sizes would also be compelling.
Sure, just when I thought picking a viola was as easy as picking a favorite color. Next you’re gonna tell me there’s a quiz for that too, right?
I see where you’re coming from, but don’t you think that for beginners, especially, the skill of the player should factor into size selection too? Sometimes a slightly smaller instrument can be less intimidating and encourage practice.
While the size chart provided is generally accurate, it’s worth noting that individual hand size and arm length play a significant role in finding the perfect fit. In addition to the chart, I recommend consulting with a teacher or professional who can provide a personalized assessment.
This is fantastic! I’ve been contemplating picking up a viola for a while now, and this guide makes the daunting task of choosing the right size seem a lot more approachable. Thanks for shedding light on this!
so if i get a bigger viola does that mean i’ll finally be able to play louder than my sis’s violin? lol, always getting drowned out here
I found the section on viola sizes to be particularly useful. It’s critical that students are matched with the correct size viola to facilitate ease of learning and comfortable play. This article aligns well with my teaching philosophy and provides useful guidelines for viola sizing.