Open String Length Violas

The open string length of a bowed string instrument is determined as follows:

• First, measure the distance from the neck root to the bridge. The bridge position is defined by the nicks of the f-holes.
• Divide this measurement by three and multiply the result by two.
• The result is the length of the neck.

The illustration compares the outline of a Maggini viola (black) with that of an Andrea Guarneri viola (red). Although the body lengths are almost identical, the bridge is positioned noticeably higher on the Maggini model. As a result, its open string length is considerably shorter.