These are common questions when making a violin purchase for a young student, and can be answered rather easily. The most accurate method for measuring your student for their new violin or viola is by taking actual measurements from the base of the neck, to the palm of the hand. Below, we have provided a step by step "no fail" approach in determining the recommended violin sizing or violin sizes. This will give you the tool you need to make a correct instrument purchase.

Step 1.  Have the student stand up straight and tall.

Step 2.  Extend the left arm out to the side, with the palm of the hand facing up

Step 3.  Measure the distance from the base of the neck to the center of the palm of the hand. No need to try and stretch the arm, it should be a comfortable arm extension without any long reaches.

Step 4.  Look at the measurements and see how they correspond with the chart below.

Step 5.  If the student is “on the line” between a smaller or larger size; it’s wise to go with the smaller size so that the reach can be comfortable and so that proper technique can be developed.

If you have a violin or viola, follow the same steps...the scroll should be between the wrist and the palm of the hand.

The Complete and Accurate Sizing Chart to Measuring Violin and Viola Students