Violas are commonly available in the following sizes: 17, 16.5, 16, 15.5, 15, 14, 13, and 12. The length of the viola from the end to the shoulder, or the point where the neck emerges from the body of this string instrument, is measured in inches. There are some larger, more experimental viola sizes of 18 and 19, but these violas are usually designed for a specific piece of music and are so difficult to play that they are not used on a regular basis. Large adults play violas in sizes 17, 16.5, 16, or 15, while teenagers play violas in sizes 15 and 14, and children play violas in sizes 13 and 12. It is critical to fit a viola comfortably to the musician in order to provide comfort while playing and allow for proper skill development.
Violins come in a variety of sizes to accommodate different types of musicians. Violas are available in eight different sizes with overall lengths ranging from 27 inches (68 cm) to 20.5 inches (52 cm). The sound of the viola is determined by the instrument’s size.
The 12 and 13 violas do not have enough air space in their body cavities to produce a typical and robust viola sound, but they are easier to play and master. When played alone in a solo situation, these violas sound great. Smaller violas, on the other hand, may fall short of the standard viola sound quality in a string quartet or even an orchestra, where the viola is tuned lower than the violin.
Larger violas, on the other hand, which produce a more hearty sound, are usually more difficult to play, especially for a beginner. Manipulation of the longer body of a larger, better sounding viola requires a fairly developed skill level. Musicians who practice in these larger spaces for long periods of time may sustain injuries. Choosing the right viola size is ultimately a compromise between sound, comfort, skill level, and even safety.
The student’s music teacher or an experienced luthier, a person who makes stringed instruments, should help them choose the right size viola. This person will either take a measurement of the student’s arm from shoulder to wrist, or he will place violas of various sizes on the student’s left arm and ask her to wrap her hand around the viola’s scroll. The student will then be asked to play the viola for a short period of time to see if she can play it comfortably and in tune. Finally, once the instrument has been determined to be the proper size, the student must determine whether the sound quality is appropriate for her.