Instrument Sizing Guide for Kids
Choosing the correct instrument size is essential for your child’s comfort and success. At Miami String Haus, we want every student to start their musical journey with an instrument that feels natural and easy to play. Below, you’ll find our recommended size chart for violins, violas, cellos, and double basses — along with simple ways to measure your child at home.
🎻 Violin Size Chart
Violins are sized from 1/16 up to full size (4/4). To determine the right fit, measure your child’s arm length from the neck to the center of the palm while the arm is fully extended and parallel to the floor.
| Arm Length | Violin Size | Approx. Age |
|---|---|---|
| 14”–15.5” | 1/16 | 3–5 years |
| 15.5”–17” | 1/10 | 4–6 years |
| 17”–18.5” | 1/8 | 5–7 years |
| 18.5”–20” | 1/4 | 6–8 years |
| 20”–22” | 1/2 | 8–10 years |
| 22”–23.5” | 3/4 | 10–12 years |
| 23.5” and up | 4/4 (Full) | 12+ years |
🎻 Viola Size Chart
Violas are measured in inches rather than fractions. The right size allows the player to reach comfortably around the instrument without strain.
| Arm Length | Viola Size | Approx. Age |
|---|---|---|
| 18”–20” | 11”–12” | 6–8 years |
| 20”–22” | 13” | 8–10 years |
| 22”–23” | 14” | 10–12 years |
| 23”–24” | 15” | 12–14 years |
| 24”–25” | 15.5”–16” | 14+ years |
🎻 Cello Size Chart
Cellos are also sized by fraction. To size correctly, have your child sit with knees bent at 90° and the cello positioned between the knees. The upper rim of the cello should rest on the chest, and the C peg should be near the ear.
| Child Height | Cello Size | Approx. Age |
|---|---|---|
| 3’–3’6” | 1/10 | 4–6 years |
| 3’6”–4’ | 1/8 | 5–7 years |
| 4’–4’6” | 1/4 | 7–9 years |
| 4’6”–4’9” | 1/2 | 9–11 years |
| 4’9”–5’ | 3/4 | 11–13 years |
| 5’ and taller | 4/4 (Full) | 13+ years |
🎻 Double Bass Size Chart
Double basses are sized differently and are much larger. For young players, comfort and reach are key — the child should be able to stand with the bass angled toward them, their left hand reaching the top of the fingerboard with ease.
| Child Height | Bass Size | Approx. Age |
|---|---|---|
| Under 4’6” | 1/8 | 6–8 years |
| 4’6”–4’9” | 1/4 | 8–10 years |
| 4’9”–5’ | 1/2 | 10–12 years |
| 5’ and taller | 3/4 (Full) | 12+ years |
🪄 Helpful Tips for Parents
- When in doubt, choose the smaller size. It’s better for your child to play comfortably than struggle with an instrument that’s too large.
- Ask your teacher or local luthier for sizing confirmation before purchasing or renting.
- Our team at Miami String Haus can assist in-store or virtually — we’ll walk you through measuring and selecting the perfect size.
Need help right away? Contact us for a personalized sizing consultation or explore our rental options below.
