How to Measure a Student for a Violin

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It is important to properly fit students for the right size instrument.  Violins come in several different common sizes: 4/4, 3/4, 1/2, 1/4, 1/8, 1/10, and 1/16.  4/4 is the largest readily available standard student size and 1/16 is the smallest.  Below is an easy way to measure what size violin best suits the student.

To get a general idea, we can use the student’s age to narrow down the size. Of course, some students need larger or smaller instruments based on their individual size. We will get a more accurate determination of the student’s size with the measurement in the steps below.

 

Student’s Age  Approximate Violin Size
3 to 4 years old 1/16
4 to 5 years old 1/10
5 to 6 years old 1/8
 6 to 7 years old 1/4
7 to 10 years old 1/2
9 to 11 years old 3/4
12+ years old and adult 4/4

 

Violin sizing

  • Have your student stand up straight with the left arm extended perpendicular to their body at shoulder height (see picture). The arm should be extended naturally and not forced completely straight.
  • Gently place a tape measure or yardstick against the student’s neck and along the extended arm.
  • Measure the distance in inches to the middle of the student’s palm.
  • Use the chart below to determine the appropriate size of violin the student needs. If the student is on the edge of two sizes, we recommend going with the smaller size.

 

Measurement in Inches Violin Size
14” to 15 3/8” 1/16
15 3/8” to 16 7/8” 1/10
16 7/8” to 18 1/2” 1/8
18 1/2” to 20 3/8” 1/4
20 3/8” to 22 1/4” 1/2
22 1/4” to 23 5/8” 3/4
23 5/8” or greater 4/4

 

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