Hi, I would like to start learning the viola soon but had some questions about the instrument.

A person I know is very petite, just about five foot tall, and plays size 15. For her 16 was too big, and 15 1/2 also, so she is happy with 15 now. I am 5' 4" and have a standard hand size for a female my height (though here in United States people tend to think my hand is a little bit on the smaller side), and wondered if 16 would be too big for me, since that seems to be the standard (please let me know if mistaken).

The viola doesn't seem too big but once I start playing the size would matter, so I would like some advice. Thank you!

Hi,
You can start with a 15" viola. Try to find one with a slightly wider lower bout (maybe 8.5" or more). Smaller violas can sound like a violin due to size. The larger the viola, the deeper & richer the sound. But if you are small frame, a too large of a viola can cause joint pains. Left side neck, shoulder, wrist, hand & finger pains are common with violists. Remember to do you stretches . Hope this helps.

Thank you very much! I'll see what works best for me. I wish I was a little taller with longer fingers so I can use the big one; I really love the deep sound of the viola.