Mendini Musical Instruments
Frequently Asked Questions
QUESTION: How Do I Know Which Size Cello To Order?
ANSWER: Measuring yourself or a child for cello size: "Seat the child (or yourself) so that the knees are bent at a ninety degree angle. The instrument should rest such that the upper rim of the cello body rests on the sternum (breast bone), and the left knee contacts the curve below the lower bout corner. The C string peg (for the thickest string) should be near the left ear, with the neck a few inches away from the shoulder, and the left hand able to reach both ends of the fingerboard with ease."
Hand size is also the primary consideration when determining the proper size to purchase. Too large an instrument can throw your balance off and/or induce tension in the left hand. If the choice between two sizes of instrument is close choose the smaller. Here are some rough guidelines to consider:
Ages 2-3: 1/8 size
Ages 3-5: 1/4 size
Ages 6-8: 1/2 size
Ages 8-12: 3/4 size
Over 12 Years: 4/4 size.
Please keep in mind that this is a very rough scale, and may not necessarily work for your child. Also, don't forget to consider your child's growth pattern, which might be an important factor!