CHOOSING A VIOLIN
Because size is very important in choosing a violin, it is advisable to seek out someone that is familiar with violin sizing. A violin that is too large for the student can be very uncomfortable to hold, and in extreme cases excess stretching of the shoulder and arm can cause painful tendonitis. As a general rule, the instrument should be held in proper playing poistion with the player's hand extended to the scroll (the farthest point of the instrument). If the reach is so great that the arm is extended fully, the violin is too large. Thus, if the arm is too bent at the elbow while holding, it is too small.
General age guidelines are as follows: ages 3-6 use 1/16th size, ages 7-9 use a 1/4 size, ages 10-12 use 3/4 size and those twelve and up use a full size (4/4). Again, these guidelines are general. To accomodate growing children, we offer up to a 100% trade in toward the next larger size when a student is ready.
A violin teacher, orchestra director or music store dealer can be of great help in determining the size you will need in relation to the arm length and hand size of the student. Violin shops that deal exclusively with orchestral instruments and music stores with string instrument departments can be good sources of education, and instrument sizing is an important part of their work. Some music stores have a very well developed violin department where children can be sized accurately, but unless this is the case, you should rely on the advice of a teacher. Often teachers or orchestra directors want to be involved in helping their students choose an instrument. It is helpful if they can accompany you to the violin shop or music store. If this is not possible, most violin shops will allow you to take an instrument for a few days on approval so your teacher can advise you on your purchase. Chris B's will always exchange an instrument if it is not the proper size for your child.
CHOOSING A VIOLIN
