String Instrument Buying Guide

Sizing, student models, and step-ups — violin, viola, cello, and bass.

Choosing the right orchestral string instrument begins with proper sizing — a violin that is too large for a student's arm will develop bad technique and cause discomfort. Brook Mays, H&H Music, and the Fishburn Violin Shop offer in-store sizing and a full range of student, intermediate, and professional strings across DFW and Greater Houston.

Sizing guide

Proper sizing is the first step. Do not guess — bring the student to a store and let us measure. Playing on an oversized instrument reinforces poor habits and causes injury.

Violin size	Approx. age	Arm length
1/16 – 1/8	3–5 yrs	Under 16 in
1/4	4–7 yrs	16–17 in
1/2	6–9 yrs	17–20 in
3/4	8–11 yrs	20–22 in
4/4 (full)	10+ yrs / adults	22+ in

Cello and bass sizing follows a similar pattern — we size those in store too.

Instruments at a glance

Violin — The treble voice of the string family. Played under the chin with a bow. Most common school orchestra assignment. Available from 1/16 to full size.
Viola — Larger than a violin; lower, warmer tone. Sized by body length (cm), not fraction. Typically assigned to students with some violin experience, or to larger-framed beginners.
Cello — Played upright between the knees. Rich, deep tone. Popular with students who find violin physically demanding. Fractional sizes available for young players.
Double bass — The lowest voice. Sizes 1/2 and 3/4 suit most middle-school players; full size for high school/adults. Ask about electric upright bass for jazz programs.

The Fishburn Violin Shop

For intermediate and professional players, visit the Fishburn Violin Shop in Tomball, TX — our specialty string destination with European-made instruments, professional setup, and bow rehair service.

String instrument questions

How is a violin sized for a child?+

Violin size is determined by arm length: with the arm extended and the wrist at a comfortable bend, the scroll of the violin should rest in the palm. Standard sizes run 1/16, 1/10, 1/8, 1/4, 1/2, 3/4, and full (4/4). We size students in store — bring the student in before purchasing or renting.

What is the difference between a student and intermediate string instrument?+

Student string instruments use carved-top or pressed-top construction and factory setup. Intermediate instruments typically have fully carved tops and backs, better tonewoods, and a professional setup (adjusting the bridge, nut, and sound post). The setup is often the biggest difference in playability and tone.

Does the bow matter as much as the instrument?+

Yes. A quality bow dramatically affects tone and technique. Student bow packages (typically pernambuco or Brazilwood fiberglass composite) are bundled with most rental instruments. As a player advances, upgrading the bow is often as impactful as upgrading the instrument itself.

What accessories does a beginner violinist need?+

A case (usually included), a bow, rosin, a shoulder rest (violin/viola), and a music stand. A fine-tuner on the tailpiece helps beginners tune accurately. Ask our staff about beginner packages that bundle these accessories.

What is the Fishburn Violin Shop?+

The Fishburn Violin Shop, located in Tomball, TX, is our specialty orchestral string shop. It stocks intermediate and professional violins, violas, cellos, and basses, including European-made instruments. Staff at Fishburn specialize in setup, repair, and bow rehairs for advancing and professional players.

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