One aspect that can be challenging for parents when buying a string instrument is determining the correct size their child needs based on their age and height. Choosing the right size is essential for the child to develop proper technique and avoid poor posture habits. Some parents may be tempted to purchase a violin that is too large so it lasts longer, but this can make playing much more difficult and may even lead to injuries. It is therefore advisable to adjust the size of the violin to the child's current size, just as you would with clothing or shoes.

In the following tutorial, you’ll find a guide to help make this choice easier, focusing primarily on the child’s height and arm length. Keep in mind that instrument size cannot be determined by age alone, as standard recommendations may not always suit your child’s specific needs. That’s why it’s best to assess each case individually.

Violins

Knowing what violin size your child needs is relatively simple, as it only requires measuring the child’s arm. To do this, the child should extend their arm straight out and parallel to the floor. The measurement from the center of the palm to the neck will indicate which violin size to choose.

In the following table, you’ll find an approximate guide:

Another way to determine if a violin is the right size is to have the child hold the violin as if they were going to play it. If they can easily reach the scroll with their hand, that size is likely the correct one.

You can see all the student violins we have available by clicking here. 

Violas

If your child is learning to play the viola, the procedure to determine the size needed is the same as for the violin. Measure their arm fully extended from the palm of the hand to the neck and check the following table to see which size to buy:

Just like with violins, there is another way to determine if a viola is the right size. Have the child hold the viola as if they were going to play it, and if they can easily reach the scroll with their hand, that size is likely the correct one.

You can see all the student violas we have available here. 

Cello

Knowing which size cello to buy is a bit more complex to determine, although for this you should also take measurements of the child as follows. First, the child should adopt the correct posture on the chair and sit on the edge with knees at a 90º angle. Rest the cello body against them at a 70º angle, at chest height, so that the peg for the C string is beside the left ear. Once positioned this way, check that the child can reach both sides of the fingerboard without arching their back or stretching too much.

In the following table, you will find approximate measurements according to age:

You can see all the student cellos we have available by here. 

Double Basses

Just like with cellos, determining the correct size is a bit more complex, and the child’s own sensations while playing are key to making the right decision. To check whether a double bass is the right size, the child should stand upright with the instrument so that the bridge aligns with their left hand. In this position, the child should feel comfortable and be able to reach the higher registers of the fingerboard with ease.

In the following table, you'll find approximate sizes based on age:

You can see all the student double basses we have available by clicking here

Although these guidelines are quite reliable, they remain approximate and may not always apply exactly. For this reason, we recommend visiting your nearest music store to consult a professional who can provide personalized advice.