The Question Every Parent Asks
Your child wants to learn violin. You're excited. You're ready to buy. But then: what size?
Violin shops have rows of tiny, medium, and full-size instruments. Are they different? Does it really matter? Can't your child just learn on whatever size is available?
Yes, size matters. A lot. ---Why Size Matters
A violin that's too large for your child will cause:
- Poor posture — they'll have to stretch their neck and shoulder, leading to tension
- Intonation problems — their fingers can't reach the fingerboard accurately
- Frustration — they'll struggle to play even basic notes
- Injury risk — neck, shoulder, and back strain from fighting with an oversized instrument
A violin that's too small is equally problematic — they'll outgrow it within months, and you'll be buying again.
The right size = faster learning + better sound + happy student. ---The Standard Violin Sizes
Violins come in five main sizes in Australia:
| Size | Arm Length (cm) | Typical Age | String Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1/4 | 50–53 | 5–7 years | 52 cm |
| 1/2 | 54–57 | 7–9 years | 56 cm |
| 3/4 | 58–62 | 9–12 years | 60 cm |
| 4/4 (Full) | 63+ | 12+ years | 65 cm |
| 7/8 | 60–64 | Rare; for smaller teens/adults | 62 cm |
The "1/4" and "1/2" don't refer to the proportions of a full-size violin — they're just conventional names. A 1/4 violin is still a complete, playable instrument.
---How to Measure Your Child at Home
You don't need to visit a shop to find the right size. Here's the one measurement that matters:
The Arm Length Method (ABRSM Standard)
1. Have your child stand straight, relaxed, with their left arm outstretched to the side (parallel to the floor).
2. Measure from the tip of their middle finger to the side of their neck (just below the ear).
3. Write down the measurement in centimeters.
That's it. Use this simple chart:
- 50–53 cm → 1/4 violin
- 54–57 cm → 1/2 violin
- 58–62 cm → 3/4 violin
- 63+ cm → 4/4 (full size)
Example
If your 8-year-old's arm length is 56 cm, they need a 1/2 violin. Easy.
---What If They're Between Sizes?
Sometimes a child measures right on the border — say, 57 cm. Should they get a 1/2 or 3/4?
Always size down, not up. Here's why:- A slightly-smaller violin is uncomfortable but playable
- A slightly-larger violin is nearly impossible for a beginner to manage
- Children grow quickly — they'll be ready for the next size within 1–2 years anyway
The Growth Timeline
Most students follow this progression:
- 1/4 → 1/2: Age 7–9 (after 1–2 years of lessons)
- 1/2 → 3/4: Age 9–12 (after 2–3 years of lessons)
- 3/4 → 4/4: Age 12+ (by secondary school or when they reach 63 cm arm length)
What About Fractional Sizes?
You might occasionally see "7/8" or "15/16" violins advertised — these are for older students or smaller adults who don't quite fit a full-size.
Skip these for beginners. Stick to the standard 1/4, 1/2, 3/4, 4/4 sizes. They're more common, easier to find, and better supported by repair technicians. ---
What's Included in a Student Violin Outfit?
A quality starter violin should come with:
✅ The violin itself — solid tonewood (spruce top, maple back)
✅ A bow — horsehair bow, pre-rosined
✅ A case — lightweight but protective
✅ Rosin — for the bow
✅ Professional setup — bridge fitted, strings tuned, ready to play
Our student violin outfits include all of these, in every size from 1/4 to 4/4. Your child opens the case and plays immediately — no trips to a repair shop before the first lesson.
Browse our student violin outfits → --- Happy violin hunting! 🎻P.S. If your child is starting AMEB lessons this term, they'll need the right size to progress properly. When you visit the teacher, bring this guide — most will confirm your size choice is correct.
