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Orchestral String Sizing Guide

The best way to determine the appropriate size instrument for your child is to follow the recommendation of their orchestra teacher. If you are not able to do this, follow the steps below.

Violin/Viola Sizing

With the left arm outstretched straight out to the side, palm up, measure the distance from the base of the neck to the center of the palm. If the results are between sizes, it is best to select the smaller size.

Violin SizeMeasurement
(Neck to Middle of Palm)
4/423 1/2" +
3/422 1/4"
1/220 1/2"
1/418 1/2"
1/817"
1/1015 1/2"
1/1614 1/4"
Viola SizeMeasurement
(Neck to Middle of Palm)
16.5"27 1/4" +
16"26 1/2"
15.5"25 1/2"
15"25"
14"23 1/4"
13"22"
12"20 1/4"

Cello/Bass Sizing

Refer to the charts below and use the player's height as the primary factor to determine the correct instrument size.

Cello SizePlayer's Height
4/462" +
3/454" - 62"
1/248" - 54"
1/444" - 48"
1/8Under 44"
Bass SizePlayer's Height
3/462" +
1/254" - 62"
1/448" - 54"
1/8Under 48"
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Bellingham Wind Works

2405 Meridian Street

Bellingham, WA 98225

Mon-Sat 10-6

360.733.5840

[email protected]

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