I am seriously considering learning to play the Violin. I played the Keyboard and Flute in childhood, i liked keyboard, hated flute, and then gave it all up for art! I love the sound of the Violin. I`m a song writer, everyone keeps telling me `learn to play the guitar, it`s much easier and more practical` but i just love the haunting gothic tones a friend of mine produces on her violin! How long do you think it takes to be able to play proficiently, on average? I`m going to have a half hour music lesson a week - that`s all i can afford.
However, i`m a small lady, only 5"2 with very small hands, and I had real problems with my flute because i didn`t have the strength or the arm length to hold it up. Do all adults have to have a 4/4 violin? Does it really matter what size i use? What would you recommend?

Violin is a small instrument. I would not go less than 7/8 size. If you are a beginner, you need to start--talk to your teacher (you have signed up for lessons) about it.

Weather you ues a 4/4 violin really depends on the size and strength you have with your hands and arms. You mentioned having difficulty holding up your flute, so I may suggest if your not too big, start learning on a smaller instrument, and as you get bigger, you`ll probably need to get a bigger violin. As for how long you`ll need to practise to become a good player, it will vary on how you process your lessons, as well as how interested you are in learning.

I have a 4/4 (full size) violin and I`m probably shorter than you.
I would suggest asking your violin teacher which size is best for you, I do find it easier playing smaller violins.

Good luck!