How to choose the right violin size for my child?

How to choose the right violin size?

The first and most important thing when choosing a violin size is to consult a teacher, because they know best what the steps are when learning this instrument. And in the end, you will need a teacher, because learning to play the violin is definitely not a "piece of cake".  If you need a teacher's contact, we at Anitom will be happy to help you.

Violin Size Guide

1/32 Violin

With 1/32 size, this is the smallest violin available that fits the 1 to 3 old children. Its quite a rare size as many parent choose to skip right to the 1/16th size.

Before investing in a a beautiful wooden instrument for your 2 year old we would recommend getting some toy instruments first to get your child acquainted with making music in a less formal way.

1/16 Violin

Once your child turns three to five years old, they will be ready for the 1/16 size violin. If he or she starts playing at this age, you should pick out this size first. It measures 36.8 cm in total length and suits the child with around a 35.6 cm long arm.

1/8 Violin

The 1/8 size violin is usually the best option for four to six years old students. With 143.2 cm in total length, it will suit the child with an arm length around 41.9 cm.

1/4 Violin

Children ages five to seven often play on the 1/4 size violin, which measures between 47 – 48.3 cm in length. It will fit students with an 45.7 – 47 cm long arm.

1/2 Violin

Once your child turns seven to nine years old, he or she will need the violin that measures 52 cm in total length. This instrument is an excellent fit for violin students with a 50.8 cm long arm.

3/4 Violin

This violin suits nine to twelve years old students. Since this instrument is 21 inches (53.3 cm) long, it is the best option for the child with around an 54.6 – 55.9 cm long arm.

4/4 Violin

It is a full-size, 23 to 23.5 inches (58.4 – 59.7 cm) long violin for tall teenagers and adults who have arms longer than 58.4 cm. In general, players taller than 5 feet (1.5 m) can start playing this instrument.

Can I Skip a Violin Size?

The dilemma that bothers most parents is whether to buy the next violin size in the list or skip one because the child is growing fast. Its the same problem you face when buying your children shoes or clothes which you know they will grow out of!

In general, it is better to skip ahead one size and purchase an instrument of better quality than waste money on a low-quality, cheap violin which will only be the right size for a matter of months in some cases. It makes sense to invest in quality and its easier to play, sounds better and its also generally easier to resell good quality instruments than very cheap laminated violins.