If your teacher has sized you, simply order the size they recommended. If not, you may want to make an appointment to come to our shop where the player can be sized and choose a viola. That would be the safest approach. However if you are unable to do that and want to order online, simply have the player extend their left arm straight out to the side, level with the shoulder and with the palm facing up. Then measure from the base of the neck (where the neck meets the shoulder) to the center of the palm (where the hand bends). Referring to the chart below, choose the viola size which corresponds to the arm measurement of the player. If the measurement is on the line between the smaller and larger size, always put a beginner in the smaller size viola. They will be more comfortable and it will be easier to reach the notes and play in tune. Teachers differ in their opinions of the appropriate size. If your teacher recommends a size change, we will be happy to do an exchange. We do not charge a fee for exchanging sizes.
| Viola Size | Arm Length | Approximate Age Range |
|---|---|---|
| 11" | 18.5" - 20.5" | 5 - 9 years old |
| 12" | 20.5" - 22.25" | 6 - 10 years old |
| 13" | 22.25" - 23.75" | 8 - 11 years old |
| 14" | 23.75" - 24.75" | 9 - 12 years old |
| 15" | 24.75" - 25.5" | 10 years old - adult |
| 15 1/2" | 25.5" - 26.25" | 11 years old - adult |
| 16" | 26.25" - 27" | 12 years old - adult |
| 16 1/2" | 27" - up | 13 years old - adult |
IF THE PLAYER HAS VERY SMALL HANDS, SHORT FINGERS OR MOBILITY PROBLEMS, IT MAY BE BETTER TO SIZE THEM ON THE SMALL SIDE.