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Violin and Viola Sizing

This approach may be used to determine the correct size of violin or viola:
  1. Extend the left arm from the body in a straight position.
  2. Position the violin or viola upside down under the arm as indicated in the picture below.
  3. Wrap the fingers around the scroll and support the instrument against the side of the body.
In this position, the instrument is of proper size. The fingers will be unable to reach around the scroll on an instrument that is too large and there will be too much bend in the arm on an instrument that is too small.

Proper violin sizing position

Attention Teachers: Check out Southwest Strings' Vio-Meter to aid in your violin sizing needs!


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