If you buy a Viola from Duet Shop for you or your child, you will want to make sure you choose the right size viola. To help, we have put together a simple guide.
Teacher Recommendation:
The first step when finding out which viola size you will need is to check with a music teacher. Most of the time, a teacher will measure the pupil and note which viola size is required. You should always go with the size recommended by the teacher. However, if you do not have a teacher-recommended size read on to find out how to get the size yourself.
Age:
Whilst there will be some exceptions to the rule, age is usually a great indicator of the size of the viola required by the player. In the table below, you will find the viola size recommended for the player’s age. However, to ensure you get the best size viola, we recommend that you measure the arm of the player.
Arm Length:
Measuring the arm of the player is one of the most simple and accurate ways of determining which size viola you will need.
This is easily done by extending the left arm at a right angle from the body and measuring the distance from the neck to the base of the fingers with a yardstick or measuring tape. Once you have your measurement use our table below to find which size viola will be best.
| ARM LENGTH | VIOLA SIZE | AGE OF PLAYER |
| 20″ | 12″ | 6-7 |
| 21.5″-22″ | 13″ | 7-9 |
| 23″-24″ | 14″ | 9-12 |
| 24.5″ | 15″ | 10-12/Small Adult |
| 25″ – 25.5″ | 15.5″ | 12+/Average Sized Adult |
| 26″+ | 16″ Full Size | Larger Adult |
It is worth bearing in mind that violas are larger than violins and are larger for the player. However, the viola should not be so large that it causes discomfort for the player. If this is the case, we recommend sizing it down.
Still Unsure?
If you have followed all the steps above and are still unsure what size viola you should get, contact the Duet Shop team, and we can help!