What's the difference between a 4/4 cello and a 7/8?

Question

I was surfing the web, as I'm in the market for my first cello, and I saw a cello marked as 7/8. Like the title says, what's the difference between 7/8 and 4/4? Also, if anyone knows of a good stringed instrument retailer in the NoVa/D.C area, please let me know.

Thanks in advance! =]

Answer 1

Because a lot of people start playing orchestral string insturments (violin, cello, viola, bass) at a young age, smaller sizes are made so that the students can work on technique without the preoccupation of the too large instrument.  A full size (4/4 in this case) is the largest for that instrument.

You should know that many go in quarter sizes, not eighths.  So it's a tough call whether it would even be worth it to buy a slightly smaller instrument if you're going to need a bigger one in just a couple years.

Answer 2

Yes, a 4/4 is a full size, while 7/8 is a tad smaller. However, it all comes down to your height and such. If you're over 5ft, go with the 4/4.

Answer 3

4/4 is full size