What size of violin do I need?

We are often asked how to tell if a child’s violin, viola or cello is the correct size for them and so we thought we’d put together a little guide. Don’t forget, we are always happy to advise on anything string instrument related so don’t be afraid to get in touch if you’d like further guidance!

This particular guide is focussed on the violin - do let us know in the comments if you’d like to see a version for viola or cello.

Violin size guide video

The video guide is intended to help players with an instrument that is smaller than a full-size violin (often called a 4/4 violin). The difference between each of the smaller sizes is about one and a half inches: in the video Tim shows you how to use a tangerine to help measure the correct violin size for your child!

Once you’ve checked whether your current violin still fits, it may be helpful to read the violin size chart below. This places the various fractional violin sizes in order, along with a very rough guide to the violin sizes by age. If you’re not sure of the size of your current violin you should be able to find this on a label on the case.

Violin size guide by age

The ages presented above are a very rough guide only - we have many young customers who play on much larger or smaller violins than their age might suggest! Some teachers recommend carefully moving between each of the sizes whereas others might recommend skipping a size. Either way, our part exchange scheme means that moving to the next size is pain free!

Further support

If you’re not quite sure or would like some advice on whether your violin still fits, do get in touch to arrange a size check appointment. There is never any charge for our instrument size checks.