The best viola for children is one that is simple to play. Because children’s arms and hands are smaller, the viola you choose should be smaller as well. Strings of good quality are also a must-have for violas. Quality instruments are also important; poorly made violas will not play as well and are more likely to break, especially when played children who are inexperienced. Beginners and children can both benefit from brand-name musical instruments that have been around for a long time. A music store can assist parents in selecting the appropriate viola size for their children.
Many aspiring musicians choose to rent a viola for kids as their first instrument. That way, the child and parent can decide whether the viola is worth purchasing or if they should opt for a different style. Violas made on a budget do not sound or last as well as high-quality brand-name instruments. A musical instrument is usually rented from a music store or an instrument dealer, and the cost varies depending on the brand and quality of the instrument.
A viola for kids should be the right size for the child who will be playing it. Violas are available in a variety of sizes, but the majority are between 15 and 16 inches (38 to 41 cm) in length, not including the neck. The viola gets smaller as the child gets older. Some of them are as long as 11 inches (approximately 28 cm). Instruments that are between 15 and 16 inches in length should be used older children and teens (about 38 to 41 cm).
A viola can be sized to fit a child. The child should be able to wrap his fingers around the top of the neck strings with a slight curve to his elbow when holding it under his chin with his left hand. Sizing issues can be resolved with the assistance of a professional instrument dealer. Instead of purchasing a new viola, some younger children can use a violin that has been re-strung as a viola. Violins are smaller and can be tuned to sound like a viola.
Aside from the viola for kids, you’ll also need a case and a bow. The entire ensemble is known as the “viola outfit.” The majority of viola cases are made of hard plastic with a soft felt or velveteen interior. The viola bow should be proportional to the viola’s size. Bows for the viola are heavier, wider, and shorter than those for the violin. A 1/4-sized bow should be used on an 11-inch (28-cm) viola. A full-sized bow will fit a 15- to 16-inch (about 38- to 41-cm) viola, while a 1/2-sized bow will fit a 12-inch (about 30.5-cm) viola.