Violin vs Cello vs Viola: Which String Instrument Is Right for Your Child?

Choosing a String Instrument

The orchestral string family is one of the most popular paths into music for New Zealand children. Whether it's through a school orchestra programme, itinerant lessons, or a community music group, the violin, cello, and viola are instruments that can last a lifetime. But which one is right for your child?

Each has a different sound, a different physical setup, and a different role in the ensemble. Some suit certain body types or personalities better than others. This guide compares all three so you can make an informed decision rather than just picking the one you've heard of most.

Quick Comparison

Violin — The Popular Choice

Who it suits

The violin is the most popular string instrument for good reason. It starts at very small sizes (1/16 for tiny hands), has the largest teaching network in New Zealand, and offers abundant repertoire from classical to folk to pop. If your child loves melody and wants to be at the front of the musical action, the violin delivers.

Physical requirements

The violin is held under the chin with the left hand supporting the neck of the instrument. This position feels unnatural at first — there's no getting around that — and it takes a few weeks for your child to feel comfortable. The left hand fingers press the strings without frets to guide them, so developing accurate intonation (playing in tune) takes time and a good ear.

Because fractional sizes are widely available (from 1/16 right up to full size), children can start very young. Your child's teacher or our violin sizing guide can help you find the right fit. Expect to move up a size roughly every one to two years as your child grows.

The learning curve

Let's be honest: the violin is not the easiest instrument to start. The first few weeks of squeaks and scratches test everyone's patience — your child's and yours. But this phase passes. Once your child develops basic bowing control and finger placement, the violin becomes wonderfully expressive. Most children who stick with it past the first term find it genuinely enjoyable.

Things to know

• The violin section is the largest in any orchestra, so there's always a spot for your child.
• Finding a teacher in New Zealand is straightforward — violin teachers are the most numerous of the string teachers.
• The violin is light and portable, easy for your child to carry to school.
• Ongoing costs are minimal — just rosin and the occasional string replacement.

Browse our violin range

Viola — The Underrated Middle Voice

Who it suits

The viola is the violin's slightly larger, deeper-voiced sibling. It plays the inner harmonies that give orchestral music its warmth and richness. If your child is drawn to a mellower, more contemplative sound — or if they like the idea of doing something a bit different — the viola is a wonderful choice.

Physical requirements

The viola is played in the same position as the violin (under the chin), but it's larger and heavier. This means your child needs a slightly bigger hand span and a bit more arm strength. Most viola teachers recommend starting around age 8-10, though some children begin on the violin and switch to viola after a year or two once they've grown into it.

Viola sizes are measured in inches rather than fractions. A typical starting size for a 9-10 year old is around 13-14 inches, progressing to 15-16.5 inches at full size.

The learning curve

If your child has any violin experience, the transition to viola is relatively smooth — the technique is similar, though the larger size requires some adjustment. Starting directly on viola is perfectly fine too. The learning curve is comparable to the violin, with the same initial challenges around bowing and intonation.

Things to know

• Violas are in short supply in most school orchestras. Your child will be highly valued and will get more prominent parts sooner than they might on violin.
• There are fewer viola teachers than violin teachers in NZ, but most violin teachers can teach viola as well — the technique overlaps significantly.
• The viola reads alto clef, which is different from the treble clef used by the violin. This is a small additional learning step, but it's not difficult.
• Viola players who go on to NCEA Music or beyond are in high demand for scholarships and ensemble placements.

Cello — Deep, Rich, and Grounding

Who it suits

The cello has one of the most beautiful sounds in all of music — deep, warm, and remarkably close to the human voice. Children who are drawn to low, rich tones, or who simply love the look and feel of a big instrument, often take to the cello with real passion. It's also a natural fit for kids who find the chin-hold position of the violin uncomfortable.

Physical requirements

The cello is played sitting down, held between the knees, with the instrument resting on an endpin on the floor. Many children find this posture more natural and comfortable than the violin position. The left hand technique is similar in principle (pressing strings without frets), but the cello's larger scale means the hand positions are more spread out, which some children find easier.

Fractional sizes are available from 1/8 up to full size, so children can start from around age 5-6. Our cello sizing guide covers the details, but your child's teacher will be the best judge of the right size.

The learning curve

The cello's seated position means less initial physical discomfort compared to the violin. Many teachers observe that young cellists produce a pleasing sound a little sooner. However, the cello has its own challenges — the spacing between notes is wider, shifting positions takes practice, and developing a strong, controlled bowing arm takes time.

Things to know

• The cello is not portable in the way a violin is. It needs a car for transport and a dedicated spot at home. If your child walks or bikes to school, getting the cello there requires planning.
• Rental costs are higher than violin because the instrument is larger and more expensive to produce.
• Cellists are always needed in orchestras and chamber groups — your child won't struggle to find ensemble opportunities.
• The cello is increasingly popular in contemporary music, film scores, and crossover genres, which appeals to many young players.

Browse our cello range

Which One Should Your Child Play?

Here's a practical decision framework:

• Your child is under 7: The violin and cello both have very small fractional sizes, making them the best options for young starters. The viola is usually better from age 8-10.
• Your child dislikes the chin-hold position: Try the cello. The seated, upright position is more comfortable for many kids.
• Your child wants to stand out: Viola players are rare and valued. If your child likes being a bit different, this is a great choice.
• Portability matters: The violin is the clear winner. If your child needs to carry the instrument to school on the bus, a cello is impractical without a parent driving.
• Your child loves melody: The violin gets the most melodic lines. Cellists get beautiful solos too, but violins carry the tune more often.
• Your child loves deep, rich sounds: The cello is unmatched. Let them listen to a few cello recordings and watch their face — you'll know.
• The school orchestra needs specific instruments: Ask the conductor. Most school orchestras in New Zealand are short on violas and cellos, which means your child will get more opportunities and attention on those instruments.

Cost Comparison

Violins are generally the most affordable to rent, followed by violas, with cellos at the higher end due to their size. The difference reflects manufacturing costs rather than quality — a rental cello isn't "better" than a rental violin, it's just bigger and more expensive to build.

All three instruments have minimal ongoing costs: rosin, the occasional replacement string, and that's about it. There are no reeds or other consumables to worry about.

One cost factor unique to strings is sizing. Growing children will need to move up to a larger instrument, sometimes every year or two. This is one of the biggest advantages of renting — you can swap sizes as needed without buying a new instrument each time. For a full breakdown, see our instrument hire cost guide.

Getting Started

If your child hasn't tried any of these instruments yet, see whether their school offers a strings taster session. Many NZ primary and intermediate schools run these at the start of the year. Alternatively, a trial lesson with a local strings teacher will give your child a chance to hold each instrument and see what feels right.

Renting is the natural starting point for string instruments — especially given the sizing issue. There's no sense buying a 1/4 size violin that your child will outgrow in 18 months. A rental lets you size up seamlessly as they grow.

Browse our string instruments to see what's available, or visit our teacher directory to find a strings teacher in your area. You can also read our complete guide to choosing the right instrument for broader advice.