how to tell what size a violin is?

Question

I've had this violin laying around my house for who knows how long I've always wanted to play it but was never sure who it belongs to. My mother just gave it to me but she did know what size it was. is there a way to tell the size? Also how much is a new bridge and strings? cause the bridge is missing and Im guessing the strings are 15 years old or more

Answer 1

If there isn't a little paper inside that tells your, here is a basic sizing chart.

4/4 (whole size) - total length 23.5 inches
7/8 (very uncommon size) - 22.5 inches
3/4 - 21.75
1/2 - 20.5
1/4 - 18.75
1/8 - 17.25
1/10 - 16
1/16 - 14.5

New bridges can be pretty expensive, around $100, give or take. You will need a professional to adjust it to fit your violin - don't try and do this yourself! The price of new strings can vary quite a bit. Red Label is a good, cheep brand for beginners. You can get these at your local music store or on-line for around $20.

Good luck!

Answer 2

i think violin strings are like $5 each at my local music store. i dont think a bridge would be $100. it's just a carved chip of wood! there were violins that were like $45 dollars before, surely a bridge wouldnt cost twice as much! i think the price varys upon brand or quality or something. the size? well i'd like a 3/4 size, but my music teachers gave me a full size one and i hate them. they're big, heavy, and i cant shift that well or do vibratto on it.. >_< i could tell what size it is when i hold itup because my friend has a 3/4 size and it feels just right and is lighter. a 1/2 size is just tiny, for 3rd graders or something. hold it with your left arm with the fat end against your neak, try to grab the scroll (the small end, swirley part). if you can grab it and it feels right, then it fits you.

Answer 3

Since you need a new bridge and strings anyway, you might as well take it to a local instrument store/maker. They'll tell you what size it is and put it back into playing condition. A set of strings will cost you about $40-60.

Answer 4

Inside one of the "f-holes" should be a small paper that tells the size, and maker its in about all stringed instruments (that I've seen). I am a Cello player so i couldn't tell you the price for any small violin gear tho.

Answer 5

a bridge is any where from 5 to 30 dollars depending on if you play for a living or just for fun and how expensive your violin is