Viola Products - Violas & Bows

	VIOLAS & BOWS*

	CHOOSING A VIOLA The following sampling of viola outfits, violas and bows is geared towards beginning viola players. The term "viola outfit" generally means the purchase price includes a viola, bow and case. Before purchasing an instrument, it is highly recommended that you test several violas. If you do decide to purchase online or through mail order, carefully investigate the company’s return policy. If you're a beginner, you may want to enlist the help of your viola teacher or a violist friend to play the viola you’re considering buying to ensure that the instrument is well-made, has a good tone and is worth buying.
	Should I rent or buy? Renting and purchasing are both good options for those who are beginning the viola. When choosing a viola, it is essential to find a reputable dealer, music store or instrument maker. It is also important to have a violist play the viola to help determine whether or not the instrument has a good tone. There are many poorly made violas out there, and price isn't always the best way to determine the quality or sound of an instrument.

	What size viola should I get? Although violins and cellos have standard sizes, there are no standard sizes for full-size violas. Full-size violas range from 15”-17” with typical sizes being: 15,” 15-1/2,” 16,” 16-1/2” and 17” with 16” being the average (some hand-made violas can be found in sizes such as 16-1/4,” 17-1/8” etc.). Sizes for smaller violas include: 11,” 12,” 13,” 14” and 14-1/2.” Viola sizes are determined by measuring the length of the back of the viola (excluding the neck, scroll and end button).

	A knowledgeable instrument maker, music dealer or viola teacher should be able to help you find the right size viola for you or your child. Generally, most adults and teenagers use a 15"-16-1/2” full-size viola (17” is typically a custom size), and children use viola sizes ranging from 11" -14.” Instead of purchasing a small viola, some beginning violists string violins as violas (the body length of a full-size violin is comparable to a 14” viola). As a general sizing guideline, when you hold the viola and place the chin rest under your left jaw, you should be able to extend your left arm under the viola and curve the tips of your left fingers around the end of the scroll, while maintaining a slight bend in your left elbow. If your fingers can't reach the end of the scroll, a smaller sized viola might be appropriate. Again, a violist or knowledgeable music dealer should be able to assist you in finding the correct size.

	Are Viola bows the same size as violin bows? No. Viola bows are slightly shorter and heavier than violin bows. They also use a wider band of horse-hair. Fractional sizes are often used to describe viola bows, and the following bow sizes correspond with viola sizes: 4/4 bow– 15-16.5+” viola, 3/4 bow – 13-14” viola, 1/2 bow – 12” viola, 1/4 bow – 11” viola.