How to Choose a Viola
Choosing a viola comes down to three things: size, level and budget. Every viola we sell is set up by our luthiers before it ships, so it arrives ready to tune and play.
Viola Sizes: 11" to 16.5"
Violas are sized by body length in inches, not in fractions like violins. To find the right size, extend the left arm with the palm up and measure from the side of the neck to the middle of the palm:
- 18" arm (about ages 5–7): 11" viola
- 20" arm (about ages 6–7): 12" viola
- 22" arm (about ages 7–9): 13" viola
- 23" arm (about ages 11–13): 14" viola
- 24.5" arm (small adult or ages 12–14): 15" viola
- 25"–25.5" arm (average adult): 15.5" viola
- 26" arm or longer (large adult): 15.5" or 16" viola
Between two sizes? Choose the smaller one, since a viola that is too large makes posture and intonation harder. See the full viola size chart.
Viola Prices by Level
Current prices for violas in stock:
- Beginner violas: $379 to $719. Franz Hoffmann® student violas and outfits for the first years of lessons.
- Intermediate violas: about $950 to $2,700. Step-up instruments for players with a few years of lessons.
- Advanced violas: about $2,500 to $7,000. For youth orchestras, auditions and serious adult players.
- Fine & Timeless violas: from $9,500. Handmade instruments from individual makers.
Want to compare at home first? Higher-priced violas qualify for our 10-day In-Home Trial, with up to two violas per trial. See the trial terms for the current eligibility.
Viola Only, Outfit or Deluxe Outfit?
- Viola only: the instrument without a bow or case, for players who already have both.
- Outfit: the viola with a bow, case and rosin. Many models also include a shoulder rest.
- Deluxe outfit: the outfit plus practice tools such as a music stand and a tuner-metronome, depending on the model.
Already have a viola? Upgrade with viola strings, viola bows, viola cases and shoulder rests.
Viola vs. Violin: What Is the Difference?
The viola is slightly larger than the violin and is tuned a fifth lower, to C-G-D-A. It reads mostly in alto clef and has a warmer, darker voice that sits in the middle of the string section. Many players start on violin and switch to viola later, because the technique is very similar. Shopping for a violin instead? Browse our violins.
Rent or Buy?
If a student is still growing or just starting out, renting keeps the first cost low. SharWay is our rent-to-own program for players across the USA: you receive a brand-new Franz Hoffmann® viola outfit with no long-term commitment, and your payments build equity. Michigan residents can also choose MI Rentals. Compare both on our instrument rentals page.
Ready to upgrade later? Franz Hoffmann® violas earn a $50 trade-in credit, and other full-size violas can earn up to 100% of their original price, minus a reconditioning fee, toward a viola of greater value. See our trade-in policy.
Viola FAQ
How much does a viola cost?
At Shar, beginner violas start at $379, intermediate violas run about $950 to $2,700, advanced violas about $2,500 to $7,000, and handmade fine violas start at $9,500.
What size viola does an adult need?
Most adults play a 15.5" viola. Smaller adults are often more comfortable on a 15", and players with longer arms may prefer a 16". Measuring arm length is the most reliable way to check.
What is the best viola for a beginner?
A properly set-up student viola in the right size matters more than any single feature. The Franz Hoffmann® Amadeus is the entry point of the line, and the Danube and Concert are the step-up models. All are available as complete outfits, and you can find lower prices on outlet and pre-owned violas.
Can I return a viola?
Yes. Instruments, bows and outfits are covered by our 30-day guarantee and must be in like-new condition to receive a full credit or refund. Outlet, pre-owned and blemished items are final sale. See returns and exchanges for details.
