FAQ
Enrico is a well-established brand and distributor of quality student and intermediate orchestral string instruments: including violins, violas, cellos, and double basses. We offer a range of outfits from beginner-level to advanced student instruments.
Enrico instruments are widely used across Australian schools and music programs, making them a trusted choice for beginner and intermediate players looking for reliable student string instruments.
Yes. Enrico violins are widely recognised as one of the most reliable and well-balanced options for beginners and student players. Each Enrico outfit is designed with ease of play, durability, and consistent tone in mind- making them ideal for new musicians. Our entry-level models offer comfortable playability, stable tuning, and strong construction, ensuring a positive learning experience for students of all ages.
Enrico instruments are available through authorised music retailers across Australia. You can purchase our violins, violas, cellos, and double basses in-store or online from approved dealers who stock Enrico products. To find a retailer near you, please visit our Where to Buy page or check with your local string specialist or school music supplier.
Most instruments are constructed from solid spruce (for the top) and maple (for the back, sides and neck). These tonewoods are chosen for their durability and warm sound, making Enrico one of the most trusted options for student string instruments in Australia. Fingerboards and pegs are made from ebony for durability.
Outfits include a bow (e.g. FPS Brazilwood), Enrico nametag, Enrico polish cloth, and an Enrico lightweight protective case.
All Enrico violins, violas, cellos and basses are supplied play-ready for students and school programs, though a professional setup can further enhance tone and playability
Proper maintenance helps extend the life of any student instrument and ensures consistent tone quality throughout school use or ongoing study. Basic maintenance recommendations include:
- Wipe down your instrument and strings after playing to remove rosin dust and moisture.
- Keep the instrument in a climate-controlled environment (avoid extreme humidity or temperature changes).
- Have the instrument regularly serviced by a qualified luthier (bridge alignment, soundpost check, re-stringing, etc.).
Yes! We offer a manufacturer’s warranty on all our instruments, one year from purchase date. Warranty terms cover manufacturing defects, but do not include wear and tear, damage from misuse, or regular maintenance items (strings, bow hair, setup, etc.).
This warranty applies to all Enrico violin, viola, cello and double bass outfits purchased through authorised Australian dealers.
To find the right size violin or viola, start by measuring your child:
- Ask your child to hold their left arm straight out, parallel to the ground, with the palm facing upward.
- Measure from the base of the neck (nape) to the center of the palm.
This measurement is a reliable guide for selecting a size that supports healthy posture and comfortable playing.
Violin Size Chart by Arm Length and Age
| Size | Arm Length (cm) | Age (approx.) |
| 1/16 | 35–38 | 3–4 years |
| 1/10 | 39–42 | 4–5 years |
| 1/8 | 43–46 | 5–6 years |
| 1/4 | 47–51 | 6–7 years |
| 1/2 | 52–56 | 7–8 years |
| 3/4 | 57–60 | 9–11 years |
| 4/4 | >60 | 11–13+ years |
Tip: If your child is between sizes, choose the smaller size to ensure proper technique and comfort.
Additional Considerations Across Instruments
- Growth spurts are fast. Re-measure every 6–12 months to ensure the instrument still fits.
- Fit matters more than age. Use measurements first, and age only as a secondary reference.
- Fractional sizes are not literal. A 1/2 violin is not exactly half the size of a full violin. Sizes vary depending on manufacturer.
- Instrument-specific factors:
- Violin and viola: Hand span, shoulder and chin rest comfort, finger reach, and a 90-degree elbow angle.
- Violin tone: Very small sizes like 1/16 may produce less full tone, so sometimes opting up is beneficial.
To find the right size violin or viola, start by measuring your child:
- Ask your child to hold their left arm straight out, parallel to the ground, with the palm facing upward.
- Measure from the base of the neck (nape) to the center of the palm.
This measurement is a reliable guide for selecting a size that supports healthy posture and comfortable playing.
| Size | Arm Length (cm) |
| 12″ | 53–55 |
| 14″ | 55–59 |
| 15″ | 63–65 |
| 15.5″ | 65–67 |
| 16″ | >67 |
Viola sizing is similar to violin, measured from the neck to the palm. Ensure the instrument fits the arm length comfortably while maintaining proper posture.
Additional Considerations Across Instruments
- Growth spurts are fast. Re-measure every 6–12 months to ensure the instrument still fits.
- Fit matters more than age. Use measurements first, and age only as a secondary reference.
- Fractional sizes are not literal. A 1/2 violin is not exactly half the size of a full violin. Sizes vary depending on manufacturer.
- Instrument-specific factors:
- Violin and viola: Hand span, shoulder and chin rest comfort, finger reach, and a 90-degree elbow angle.
- Violin tone: Very small sizes like 1/16 may produce less full tone, so sometimes opting up is beneficial.
To measure for a cello:
- Have your child sit at the front edge of a chair with knees bent at right angles and feet flat on the floor.
- The back of the cello, where the neck meets the body, should rest at the center of the chest, and the C-peg should be just behind the left ear.
- The knees should lightly hold the lower bouts without strain, and your child should reach the full fingerboard comfortably.
Cello Size Chart by Age
| Size | Age (approx.) |
| 1/10 | 4–5 years |
| 1/8 | 5–6 years |
| 1/4 | 6–8 years |
| 1/2 | 8–10 years |
| 3/4 | 10–12 years |
| 4/4 | 12–13+ years |
When selecting a double bass:
- Have your child stand upright with the bass in playing position.
- The bridge should roughly align with the knuckles of the right hand.
The correct size allows your child to play comfortably while reaching higher notes without overextending.
Double Bass Size Chart by Age
| Size | Age (approx.) |
| 1/16 | 3–4 years |
| 1/10 | 4–5 years |
| 1/8 | 5–7 years |
| 1/4 | 7–9 years |
| 1/2 | 9–13 years |
| 3/4 | 13+ years |
Tip: A 3/4 size is typically standard for adults.
Enrico instrument are distributed by F. Payton & Son in Australia. To see other products we distribute please visit www.paytons.com.au

