What Size
Violins and Violas come in a wide range of sizes from small enough for children to large enough for adults. You need to find the one that best fits your body. Here are some simple strategies to help you.
1.
Selecting a violin size using the scroll test. Hold the violin up with left hand extended all the way to the scroll. While in this position check your left arm.
Can you wrap your left hand comfortably around the curve of the scroll?
Is there still some relaxation to your arm with a slight bend to your elbow? You should be able to answer YES to these questions. If you can then the violin is a good fit for you.
Is your arm extended straight with fingers barely touching the scroll? (Then the instrument is too big.)
Is your left arm bent at a 90 degree or smaller angle? Does your arm feel squished when your left hand is wrapped around the scroll? (Then the instrument is too small.)
2.
Selecting a violin or viola size by measurements. Measure from your neck to the middle of the palm of your left hand while your left hand and arm are fully extended away from your side. This will give you the largest size of violin or viola a student can play on. Follow the sizing measurements listed below.