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How to how to select the correct size Cello

This tutorial will help you to select the corrct size of cello. You shouldn't have to try out every size of cello. You should be able to judge what size you need solely by your height. But here are a few different methods of sizing. 

By Age:

  • 1/8 size - 4 to 6 years old
  • 1/4 size - 5 to 7 years old
  • 1/2 size - 7 to 11 years old
  • 3/4 size - 11 to 15 years old
  • 4/4 size - 15 and above

By Height:

  • 1/8 to 1/4 size - below 4 feet
  • 1/2 size - 4 to 4 1/2 feet
  • 3/4 size - 4 1/2 to 5 feet
  • 4/4 size - 5 feet and above

Proper Cello Sizing

  • Sit in chair with your feet touching the floor.
  • Adjust the endpin so that it extends 12 inches from the bottom of the cello.
  • Rest the top of the cello body against your chest at a 45 degree angle.
  • The top of the cello body should rest at the center of your chest.
  • The C string tuning peg should reach your left ear.
  • If the cello body or tuning peg is too low, you need a bigger cello
  • If the cello body or tuning peg is too high, you need a smaller cello