Violin Sizing Chart Guide – Determine the Right Size Violin.

How many sizes of violins are there?

Violins typically come with eight different sizes, ranging from 1/32 to 4/4.

The 4/4 size is also called a full size violin.

However, finding the right size could be tricky since not all brands and manufacturers use the exact same dimensions when making and labeling the violins.

How to determine the right size violin for the player?

The best way to find the right size and fit is to try them out at a local violin shop.

If that is not feasible, then you can try to take the measurements yourself and use the sizing chart below as a guide to decide on the size.

How to take the measurements?

1. Lift the arm parallel to the floor, palm facing up (as shown in the video below).
2. Move the arm out from the upper body about 45 degree angle, so that it’s not directly in front of you.
3. Use a yardstick to measure from the base of the neck to the center of the palm.
4. You can also use measuring tape. Just make sure the tape is straightened for better accuracy
5. Use the violin sizing chart to determine the size.
6. NOTE: If the measured length is in between two sizes, it’s better to go with the smaller size. Using a too big of a violin may result in poor posture and cause injuries.
7. Ask the student to hold the violin in a playing position. They should be able to wrap the fingers around the scroll comfortably with the arm slightly bent. The finger tips should be able to touch the peg box easily.
8. If the fingers can’t touch the peg box or the student needs to stretch the arm to get to the scroll, then the violin may be too big.

Additional important tips about choosing the right size violin:

1. As your child grows, it is important to remeasure and change to a bigger size violin.
2. Do not choose a violin size simply based on age or height.
3. Do not choose a size that is too big for the student. It could cause injuries.
4. If you are not sure, try to go with a smaller size.

Video on how to choose right Size violin:

Violin sizing chart in inches:

Violin sizing chart in centimeters:

Happy learning!