How to Properly Size a Viola
Sizing Your Viola for Comfort, Technique, and Unforgettable Sound
Choosing the correct viola size is essential for comfort, technique, and sound quality. Unlike violins, which typically come in standard full and fractional sizes, violas vary in length to accommodate different players. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced musician, selecting the right size ensures ease of playing and prevents strain or injury. This guide will walk you through how to properly size a viola to fit your needs.
Understanding Viola Sizes
Violas are measured in inches rather than fractions, like violins. The most common viola sizes range from 11 inches to 17 inches, with some exceptions. A full-size viola is generally considered to be above 15 inches. Although, more and more adults are using a 14 inch V. Richelieu as a full-size as the sound frequently can match that of a 16 inch viola. The size of the viola is determined by measuring the back of the instrument from the bottom of the body to the top, excluding the neck and scroll.
Measuring for the Right Fit
To determine the right viola size for you, follow these simple steps:
Arm Length Measurement:
Extend your left arm straight out, parallel to the floor.
Measure from the base of your neck to the middle of your palm.
Compare your measurement with a viola sizing chart. Typically:
12-inch viola: 20–21.9 inches arm length
13-inch viola: 22–23.9 inches arm length
14-inch viola: 24–25.9 inches arm length
15-inch viola: 26–27.9 inches arm length
16-inch viola: 28 inches or longer arm length
Comfort Check:
Hold the viola as if playing, ensuring you can reach the fingerboard comfortably.
Your left arm should not be overly stretched or bent in an unnatural position.
If the instrument feels too large or too small, try the next available size.
Considerations for Choosing a Viola Size
While arm length is a key factor in selecting a viola, other elements should be considered:
Hand Size: Players with smaller hands may benefit from a slightly smaller viola, even if their arm length suggests a larger size.
Shoulder Width & Flexibility: Players with broader shoulders might handle a larger instrument more comfortably.
Age & Growth: Young players who are still growing should choose a size that allows some room for growth but is still comfortable to play.
Sound Preference: Larger violas tend to produce a deeper, richer tone. If sound quality is a major concern, you may opt for the largest size you can handle comfortably.
Testing and Finalizing Your Selection
Whenever possible, try different viola sizes before making a decision. Visit a music store or work with a teacher to test different instruments. Playing scales, shifting positions, and checking bowing comfort can help confirm the best fit.
Conclusion
Properly sizing a viola is crucial for both comfort and performance. By measuring your arm length, considering additional factors like hand size and flexibility, and testing different instruments, you can find the perfect viola for your playing style. A well-fitted viola enhances technique, prevents strain, and allows for greater musical expression. Take your time in selecting the right size and enjoy making music with ease!
V. RICHELIEU VIOLA
We design and build violas for the next generation of violists.
We start at the beginning. We place small fractional violas designed and built in our Vermont workshop into small hands to play viola music as it was composed to play. We do not compromise, and neither should you.
Don’t play a converted violin. Play a real viola. Play a V. RICHELIEU™ small viola. Each V. RICHELIEU™ viola is uniquely crafted to make each piece of wood sing in full voice. The instruments are built in Vermont to combine over 80 years of experience with unique hand graduations and a beautiful hand-painted oil varnish of our own proprietary formulation.
Available as small as 11” to 16”. Real Violas for Aspiring Soloists!