How To Size For An Instrument
The best way to size your child is to bring them into our shop and have someone on staff size them or to have your teacher size them. When this isn't possible, there are a couple of options.
The charts below show approximate arm lengths for violin and viola, and approximate heights for cello, bass, and guitar.
We also have a video that demonstrates how to size an instrument for a child.
Violin Sizing
| Arm length is at least | Violin Size |
|---|---|
| 14” to 15.25” | 1/16 |
| 15.25” to 16.75" | 1/10 |
| 16.75” to 18.5” | 1/8 |
| 18.5” to 20.25” | 1/4 |
| 20.25” to 22.25” | 1/2 |
| 22.25” to 23.75” | 3/4 |
| Greater than 23.75” | 4/4 |
|
*This chart shows approximate arm lengths.
**To determine arm length, measure from where the neck meets the shoulder to the base of the palm. |
|
Viola Sizing
| Arm length is at least | Viola Size |
|---|---|
| 17" | 1/16 |
| 19" | 1/10 |
| 20" | 1/8 |
| 22" | 11" |
| 23.5" | 12" |
| 25" | 13" |
| 27" | 14" |
|
*This chart shows approximate arm lengths.
**To determine arm length, measure from where the neck meets the shoulder to the base of the palm. |
|
Cello Sizing
| Height Range | Cello Size |
|---|---|
| 48" to 50" | 1/8 |
| 51" to 54" | 1/4 |
| 55" to 58" | 1/2 |
| 59" to 62" | 3/4 |
| 63" and up | 4/4 |
| *Please Note: All sizes are for German instruments. | |
Bass Sizing
| Height Range | Bass Size |
|---|---|
| 48" to 50" | 1/10 |
| 51" to 54" | 1/8 |
| 55" to 58" | 1/4 |
| 59" to 62" | 1/2 |
| 63" and up | 3/4 |
| *Please Note: We do not carry basses larger than 3/4 size. | |
Additional Resources
Located in Newton, Massachusetts, Carriage House Violins is the instrument sales division of Johnson String Instrument.
Resources
Whether searching for a job, learning about the "Mozart Effect," looking for a summer music camp, or choosing the right instrument string, you need look no further.
A charitable foundation whose goal is to provide high-quality instruments to children who live in under-served communities and who are participating in El-Sistema-inspired programs in Massachusetts.
media
Helpful "how to" videos and useful information about JSI and the products and services we offer.