Choosing the Appropriate Viola Size
Stringed instruments have an advantage over many other musical instruments in that they are made in several sizes, so that a smaller player can still play properly. The length of the body designates what size of viola is appropriate. The chart below indicates the various sizes of instruments, and the dimensions of the player that should be used as a guide for proper selection.
The arm length dimension is found by having the player extended their left arm out straight and level with their shoulder with the palm facing up. Arm length for this chart is the distance from the neck to the center of the palm. The distance in the chart is the MINIMUM distance that would apply to that size. If the distance is greater than the chart distance, that indicated size should be comfortably playable by that player up to the next size indicated. (For example: If the length of the players arm is 22”, you should go with the 13” viola)
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| Viola Size |
Arm Length
(neck to center of palm; in inches) |
16 1/2" |
26 1/2"+ |
16" |
26" |
15 1/2" |
25 1/4" |
15" |
24 1/2" |
14" |
23" |
13" |
21 1/4" |
12 1/4" |
20" |
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