Violin Sizes & Purchasing

Rule #1 You get what you pay for and typically cheap will result in costly frustration and poor abilities to distinguish tone quality.

Rule #2 Find out who your teacher recommends as a trusted luthier before you do the ebay gamble or get an instrument that may be lesser quality or value than you need.

Rule #3 Make sure the instrument is right for the violinist, in size, tone, and bow weight & flexibility.

Violin Size by Arm Length:

To determine what size violin your child needs, extend the arm so that it is perpendicular to the body, measure the length from his/her neck to the middle of the palm.

Approximately:

22 3/4 inch.....Full Size

22 1/4 ............3/4 Size

20 1/4 in.........1/2 Size

18 1/2 ............1/4 Size

15 1/4 in........1/10 Size

14 1/4 ...........1/16 Size

13 3/4 in.........1/32 Size

The following table shows the approximate dimensions of violins of various sizes. These should be taken as merely a place to begin so you know if it may be time to visit a trusted violin shop. Sizes vary among different violin makers, and it's always best to play the violin before choosing. 

In many cases, the size of the violin is clearly labeled in the inside of the back of the violin (try look into the f hole). In the absence of such label, the chart should help to identify its size.

Match the closest overall size from the above chart, that will be the most comfortable size for him/her.  If you need to get a bigger size for whatever  reason, the hand should be able to "cup" the scroll in the palm when the violin is against the neck in playing position.  Always consult your violin teacher before your purchase. Sometimes a larger violin will help in creating a better sound, but can also make the instrument more difficult to play.

Also, don't be intimidated by violin makers / luthiers. It doesn't take social graces to make or sell a great instrument, and many parents have had their feelings hurt at the local violin shop. But, there are some really wonderfully approachable violin makers, as well; ask your teacher. Some are more willing than others to meet the needs of serious young students, while others may focus on repairs or larger public school instruments, and others may cater to the soloist and professional musician. Going to a luthier that serves your needs is helpful; so ask who their clientele is. Ask about rent-to-own and how much of the purchase value you will retain (it should be 100%) when you trade-in for a larger size. And don't be afraid to tell a violin shop the violin they recommended for your child isn't good enough. A "kid's" violin should never be treated as such. If the luthier can't tell the difference between tone quality in very small violins, your teacher probably can if they see those instruments often. The expectation for tone quality and comfortable fittings and ease of tuning should all be higher for the young beginner who does not need to add a "toy" junk violin to the list of hurtles to overcome.

Ultimately, the best plan is to ask your teacher to help you find a fine instrument, before you purchase.