- We asked: is the instrument better for ensemble playing or best for solo performance?
- We took turns playing and listening to decide whether the instrument was more well-suited to blending with others, or if it is more likely to stand out.
- Some instruments may sound sweet under your ear, but can get “lost” from an audience’s perspective.
- These may work better for fitting into an ensemble.
- The sound could be really attractive, but rather introverted.
- When we play in larger groups it’s about the overall sound.
- Individual instruments don’t need to stand out: have you ever listened to a choir where somebody’s voice cuts through and dominates unpleasantly?
- Others might sound less pleasant under your ear, but the sound carries clearly to your listeners.
- These can lend themselves best to solo performance or playing in a trio/quartet situation where you really need to be able to make yourself heard more distinctly.
- We might say these are more extroverted.
- Bassy character or treble (ie, deeper or brighter tone)
- Sometimes we say an instrument is “warmer” (more bass) or brighter (more treble).
- It may be a violin that sounds almost “viola-ish” so we lean more towards “bass” on the scale.
- A cello could be very bright and not as ‘boomy’ or big sounding on the lower strings, so we count it as more “treble” in character.
- The standard Stradivari pattern gives the most characteristic violin/viola/cello family sound.
- It’s quite bright and speaks out well as an instrument designed to dominate the room.
- We asked if an instrument had more complex tones or if it was more outspoken and direct.
- Some instruments will have a real richness in the overtones, giving a great sense of interest when we try them.
- They probably will be slightly more introspective as well, but we can find this “depth” even in a solo instrument.
- A good example of this is found in the Guarneri violin design, which offers a rich and intriguing character, yet we find lends itself well to solo performance.
- The Stradivari pattern has a great blend of beautiful tone and brightness. It is brighter and clearer than the other popular designs.
- With every model we judged the instrument itself, not comparing it to any other instrument or price range.
- Therefore, a $300 violin is assessed via our 3 categories based on its own voice and not compared with say, a $3000 violin.
- It is our hope that our Sound Profile can help you find the type of voice you’re seeking, whether the instrument range is beginner, intermediate or beyond.
- Our advice if you’re searching on our website is to filter by your preferred price range / performance level and select those instruments that suit the general character you desire.
- This should reduce the wide number of options, helping narrow selection down to two or three instruments, making your trial process less complicated and less stressful!
Measure in centimeters from the neck to the middle of the palm.
Directions for Measuring: With the player’s arm fully extended and parallel to the floor, measure in centimetres from the neck to the middle of the palm.
| SIZE OF VIOLIN | MEASUREMENT (CM) | AVERAGE AGE OF CHILD |
|---|---|---|
| 1/16 | 35 - 38 CM | 3 - 4 YRS |
| 1/10 | 39 - 42 CM | 4 - 5 YRS |
| 1/8 | 43 - 46 CM | 5 - 6 YRS |
| 1/4 | 47 - 51 CM | 6 -7 YRS |
| 1/2 | 52 - 56 CM | 7 - 8 YRS |
| 3/4 | 57 - 60 CM | 9 - 11 YRS |
| 4/4 | > 60 CM | 11 - 13+ YRS |
Directions for Measuring: With the player’s arm fully extended and parallel to the floor, measure in centimetres from the neck to the middle of the palm.
| SIZE OF VIOLA | MEASUREMENT (CM) |
|---|---|
| 12" | 53 - 55 CM |
| 13" | 55 - 59 CM |
| 14" | 59 - 63 CM |
| 15" | 63 - 65 CM |
| 15" 1/2 | 65 - 67 CM |
| 16" | >67 CM |
Directions for Measuring: Sizing cellos is slightly more complicated than sizing violins and violas. The student should be seated at the edge of a chair such that the knees are bent at a ninety-degree angle (feet flat on the floor). The upper edge (back of cello near where the neck joins the body) of the instrument should rest in the centre of the chest (on the sternum) and the C peg should be slightly behind the left ear. The knees should lightly grip the lower bouts ensuring that the corners do not dig into the side of legs. (Corners should be slightly above the inside of the knees). The student should be able to reach both ends of the fingerboard with ease. The chart below shows approximate sizing by age.
Note: 7/8 size cellos are available as well. This can be a useful transitional size or a more comfortable option for those players who prefer a slightly smaller instrument.
| SIZE OF CELLO | AGE OF CHILD |
|---|---|
| 1/10 | 4 - 5 YRS |
| 1/8 | 5 - 6 YRS |
| 1/4 | 6 - 8 YRS |
| 1/2 | 8 - 10 YRS |
| 3/4 | 10 - 12 YRS |
| 4/4 | 12 - 13+ YRS |
Directions for Measuring: The 3/4 size double bass is the standard size for adults. 7/8 size basses and 4/4 sizes basses are made but they are less commonly used.
As a rough guideline, when both the bass and the player are standing upright, the bridge should be approximately at the same height as the large knuckles of the student's right hand. The most important issue is that the instrument is comfortable and that the student can reach the higher registers of the fingerboard without difficulty.
The chart below shows approximate sizing by age.
| SIZE OF BASS | AGE OF CHILD |
|---|---|
| 1/16 | 3 - 4 YRS |
| 1/10 | 4 - 5 YRS |
| 1/8 | 5 - 7 YRS |
| 1/4 | 7 - 9 YRS |
| 1/2 | 9 - 13 YRS |
| 3/4 | 13+ YRS |
Step One
Choose your instrument and size.
Step Two
Add your selected instrument to cart
Step Three
Add any accessories you may need and checkout.
Step Four
Set up your direct debit for monthly payments (emailed after checkout).
Step Five
Receive your instrument via delivery or in-store pickup.
Step Six
Return the instrument when you’re ready to buy your own.
Why Rent an Instrument from Simply for Strings
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Our Professional Set up
Every instrument in our rental program comes with high-quality strings and bow and has been inspected, played, and tonally adjusted by our professional luthiers.
When you apply in-store, a Simply for Strings team member will match you with the right-sized instrument to fit you. Whether you’re looking for a rental violin, viola, cello, or double bass, we have a range of quality rental instruments to choose from.
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Terms to fit you
Our goal is to help you forge a musical path you will nurture throughout your life. You begin with a 3-month minimum contract, where you'll have the opportunity to get to know your instrument properly.
If you want to continue your string instrument rental after the initial 3-month contract ends, your rental agreement will be billed monthly. You can change your instrument size at any time (subject to availability).
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Bonuses to strike a chord
Every team member here at Simply for Strings is a passionate strings player. We are more than happy to offer tailored advice and insightful tips on how to get the most out of your playing.
Included in your instrument rental are also:
• Rosin
• Luggage tag
• Cleaning cloth
• Tuning, adjustments, and instrument servicing during your rental period.
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Rental Protection Plans
Rental Protection Plans
All manufacturing faults will be repaired free of charge*.
However, to protect you and your instrument, we offer a range of Rental Protection Plans to cover up to 75% of all repairs required from accidental damage.
Monthly Rental Protection Plans available for:
• +$10 p/m for violin and viola rental
• +$15 p/m for cello rental
• +$20 p/m for double bass rental
*excludes strings and bow hair.
Every instrument in our rental program comes with high-quality strings and bow and has been inspected, played, and tonally adjusted by our professional luthiers.
When you apply in-store, a Simply for Strings team member will match you with the right-sized instrument to fit you. Whether you’re looking for a rental violin, viola, cello, or double bass, we have a range of quality rental instruments to choose from.
Our goal is to help you forge a musical path you will nurture throughout your life. You begin with a 3-month minimum contract, where you'll have the opportunity to get to know your instrument properly.
If you want to continue your string instrument rental after the initial 3-month contract ends, your rental agreement will be billed monthly. You can change your instrument size at any time (subject to availability).
Every team member here at Simply for Strings is a passionate strings player. We are more than happy to offer tailored advice and insightful tips on how to get the most out of your playing.
Included in your instrument rental are also:
• Rosin
• Luggage tag
• Cleaning cloth
• Tuning, adjustments, and instrument servicing during your rental period.
Rental Protection Plans
All manufacturing faults will be repaired free of charge*.
However, to protect you and your instrument, we offer a range of Rental Protection Plans to cover up to 75% of all repairs required from accidental damage.
Monthly Rental Protection Plans available for:
• +$10 p/m for violin and viola rental
• +$15 p/m for cello rental
• +$20 p/m for double bass rental
*excludes strings and bow hair.
Packaged with Care
Trust us! We ship more instruments than anyone else in Australia.
Any unlikely damages during shipping are covered by us. Delivery day is special when you receive a Simply for Strings parcel. All of our orders are packed by our team of musicians in 100% eco-friendly packaging. Investing in an instrument is a big deal - our instruments are carefully bubble wrapped and packed in custom boxes to minimise movement during transit. If anything is damaged upon arrival, we’ll sort it in a jiffy! Whether you're ordering a new set of strings or a delicate musical instrument, every single order is packaged and sent with care. READ MORE
Rental Reviews
Thank you for helping to start my strings journey!
A beautiful little store with knowledgeable and welcoming staff who were very willing to help. Ample parking and easy to find. I visited to rent an instrument and the process was extremely simple. Thank you for helping to start my strings journey!
Friendly and flawless
James was wonderful. He had my daughter measured and set up with a violin in no time. The service was friendly and flawless. The hire instrument is in good condition.
Best customer service
Joe was so responsive to my request for a full size violin rental! He called me when it was ready to pick up and took the time to explain every aspect of care for the violin - which was really important as I am a lay person. Best customer service I’ve had at any store in ages! Thank you Joe.
Start Your Musical Journey with Viola Rental
Every musician needs the freedom to explore and connect with their chosen instrument to play successfully. Our viola rental program at Simply for Strings offers just that. It gives you the time and freedom to experiment, build your skills, and develop your musical ear, without any pressure or upfront purchase. Whether you're a beginner string player, transitioning to viola from other instruments, or looking for your child's first instrument, viola rental offers a practical starting point.
Rent a viola today with Simply for Strings and explore the beauty of viola music without immediate financial commitment.
Discover Your Musical Voice with Viola Instrument Rental
Viola rental is a fantastic opportunity for beginners to explore how the viola feels in their hands, how it sounds, and whether it’s the right instrument for them. You can learn and practise without committing to a complete setup purchase right away.
It’s also a practical solution for children who quickly outgrow their instrument and may need to upsize each year. Our viola rental program allows you to switch sizes at any time in a simple and cost-effective way.
Each rental viola in our collection has been hand-chosen for its quality before being professionally adjusted by our experienced luthiers to support your musical development. We offer the best instruments for hire because that first impression matters, and we want everyone who is interested in this particular instrument to experience the viola's rich emotional range.
Viola for Rent Near Me: Australia-Wide Service
At Simply for Strings, we believe that every musician should have access to quality instruments. Therefore, we have expanded our viola rental service to all of Australia. While our store is located in Brisbane, we carefully pack and swiftly ship violas throughout the country. Each package includes a professionally set-up viola and all essential accessories you may need.
If you're based in Brisbane, you can come and choose a viola for hire in person. Our friendly and knowledgeable team comprises musicians and music teachers, so we can easily help you find the right size and fit.
What’s Included in Your Viola Rental
When you rent a viola from Simply for Strings, you’ll receive a premium, well-maintained instrument, fitted with high-quality strings and tonally balanced by our in-house luthiers. Every rental also includes:
- A bow and case.
- Rosin and a cleaning cloth.
- Instrument servicing, tuning, and adjustments throughout your rental period.
- An optional rental protection plan to cover accidental damage (up to 75% of repair costs).
We begin with a 3-month minimum rental period, giving you plenty of time to get comfortable with the instrument and your playing. After that, your agreement changes to a flexible month-to-month rental. You can upsize your viola or terminate the rental following a completed rental month.
Our team is on hand to assist, answer your questions, provide tuning tips, and support you on your musical journey. We are happy to be by your side as you take the first exciting steps with your viola and will do our best to help transform your curiosity for string music into a lifelong passion.
Rent Your Viola at Simply for Strings
Simply for Strings isn’t just a music store; it's a community of string players, music educators, and luthiers who believe in the power of music to change lives. We’ve spent years helping students, parents, and performers discover their ideal instrument, and we’re proud to be a trusted name in Australia’s string music scene.
We strive to ignite creativity and nurture a love for music in every potential violist. We're sure each person has a distinctive musical expression inside waiting to be revealed, and renting a viola is a great way to start.
If you’ve been dreaming about playing the viola or watching your child light up whenever they hear string music, that's your sign to rent a viola. Contact us today to find the perfect rental instrument and unlock your creativity.
Viola Rental FAQs
1. How much does it cost to rent a viola?
Viola rentals are $35 per month, with an option to add a protection plan for just $10 per month to cover accidental damage. It’s an affordable way to start playing without the upfront cost of buying a viola outright.
2. Where can I rent a viola?
Simply for Strings offers viola rentals Australia-wide. If you’re looking to rent a viola near you in Brisbane, you’re welcome to visit our Red Hill store to choose your viola in person. If you’re located outside of Brisbane, and you’re after viola hire in Sydney, Melbourne or regional areas, we carefully pack and ship rental violas across the country.
4. How does viola rental work?
Renting a viola through our website is simple. Once you book your viola instrument rental, our team will match you with the right size and playing level. We offer an initial 3-month rental period, followed by a flexible monthly plan. If you need to upsize or end your rental, you can do so at the end of any rental month. As a close musical community and professional musicians ourselves, we’re here to support you every step of the way during your viola hire journey.
3. Should I buy or rent a viola?
Viola rental is a smart choice for beginners and growing students because it gives you the opportunity to explore playing a string instrument without the large upfront investment. It’s especially helpful for young musicians who are likely to change sizes over time. If you’re progressing or playing more seriously, purchasing a viola tailored to your sound and style may be a better option. If you’re still unsure which path to take, please take a look at our blog in which our team shares tips on whether to buy or rent a viola.
