I'm just starting to play the viola and I went to the store on Monday and was sold a 16" one. I was told that the size was fine for me - I'm a 5.4 foot female and I only have small hands.
I took it home and have been trying to practise, but it's obvious that it's too big for me - I'm struggling to reach the G string and the C string is almost impossible! My wrist is hurting and the pain has been extending up my arm.
I phoned the store and explained my difficulties, but they said that the size was fine - I can hold the scroll in the palm of my hand, but my arm is completely straight and I've spoken to a Luthier and he said that the arm should be slightly bent when holding it in this way.
I think the store were just glad to have sold it as it had been in for quite a while. It's a nice instrument, but I can't do anything with it.
They told me to go back in with it and they'd try me out on some different sized "fiddles" (as he so eloquently phrased it)! I don't want a re-strung violin!!!!! I asked if they can get me a 14.5 or 15" viola, but they didn't want to commit themselves. I just have a feeling that they want to fob me off with a violin and set of viola strings.
I'm so upset now as I'm really enjoying learning (I've been learning on my son's school instrument) and I just want the right sized viola for me! I'm scared about what they're going to do on Monday when I return to the store. I can't go today as my son is sick.
What should I do?
Should I insist that they source me a proper sized viola or ask for my money back if they can't? Would a re-strung violin do the job or be inadequate?
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