What size violin do you need?

If you decide to play the violin or your child starts its first lessons, it is important to find the right size violin. Violins are made in different sizes so that even small children can play the violin. Violins are made in 8 sizes. The size corresponds to the length of the body of the violin (without the neck and scroll). The smallest commonly used size is the 1/16 violin (23 cm). Followed by the 1/10, 1/8, 1/4, 1/2, 3/4, 7/8 and finally the 4/4 or whole violin (36 cm). You have the right size if you can comfortably reach the fingerboard with your left hand. You can also determine the right size by measuring the arm length (from shoulder to wrist). See the table below.

A 4/4 or 7/8 violin?

Most adults play on a 4/4 violin. If you have a short arm it may be more comfortable to play a 7/8 violin. The 7/8 violin is also referred to as a 'ladies violin'. Occasionally I have an old 7/8 violin in the collection, but they are quite rare.

Can you also skip a size? Children sometimes skip a size, so that a new violin does not always have to be purchased. Discuss with your teacher what is sensible. Renting is also an option. Forte Violen sells and rents violins from size 1/4. The violins can be tried out in Oosterbeek, near Arnhem.

Also, a larger bow and case? A larger violin also automatically includes a larger bow and a larger case. The shoulder rest often fits several sizes of violins and therefore does not have to be changed each time.

Look here for our range of children's violins. Renting these violins is also possible