In-Home Trials

Hassle-free and enjoyable trial

It's a personal thing, finding a bow that suits.

My daughter wants to try your Astute bow because of the favourable reviews, the fact that you (as a viola player) were instrumental (pun intended) in the creative process, and because the bows looks beautiful (the appearance of the bow matters to her).

She will be also trying the Codabow Nx [from another shop], because of its popularity and potential resale value when/if she goes to upgrade.

[UPDATE: 2 months later] My daughter ended keeping the first bow [from two trial shipments].

I appreciate that you sent us other bows for her to try, it helped her come to the decision that she wanted keep the first [Astute].

Thank you for making the process as hassle-free and as enjoyable as possible.

March 23, 2023

Truly a work of art, absolutely stunning

I'm an adult progressing beginner player, having played for 2 years on my starter violin. My first violin is a Fiddlerman Apprentice and has served me well for the price, but I'm ready to upgrade to a nicer instrument.

My teacher and I went to the local violin shop in Tacoma, WA and tried several options but couldn't find the right fit.

I was considering an in home trial with Fiddlershop when I came across this site. I must say I was impressed despite the potential cross border complications.

I appreciate Rhiannon's commitment to [her] work, getting back to me so quickly after her procedure, however, as a physician, I hope she gets the rest she needs!

Thank you for putting human connection at the forefront of your business, Rhiannon. Not to get into it too much here, other than to say that is something I feel strongly is desperately needed in the world these days.

She wasn't kidding about that [Stankov] violin. That is a (*expletive*) beautiful instrument. Truly a work of art, absolutely stunning. One may never forget a first love, but can learn to love again!

I received the violins and had a chance to try them out with my teacher. We both agree that the Fiddleheads 909 is the winner! Sounds much nicer than the violins we tried at the local violin shop recently.

It pairs nicely with the VN-65 which is our favorite bow of the three choices.

It has been a pleasant experience working with Fiddleheads. I do really appreciate the personal attention and care.

My teacher was impressed too and interested in your website info, which I provided her. I wouldn't be surprised if she referred some of her students to [Fiddleheads]! She apparently has played up in Kamloops previously.

Thank you for the detailed instructions [packaging up and shipping back the other violin on trial].

[UPDATE: 1 week later] I wanted to try the 909 one more time with my teacher, and she was again quite impressed with it, as am I :)

August 23, 2022

Rhiannon goes above and beyond good service

Rhiannon is an amazing person. She was very supportive and patient with my process of trialing violins.

She responded very quickly to any questions, concerns, needs or requests that I had along the way.

She was always available to meet and has all the extras readily available: different strings, fine tuners, rosin, bridges, a luthier... She has it all.

I love all the little gifts she includes with the purchase of one of her violins but I don't want to specify and ruin the surprise for anyone.

To summarize, Rhiannon goes above and beyond good service.

Her violins are beautiful and in perfect condition.

July 15, 2022

Fantastic instruments, perfect transaction

We received the two 909 violins! Thanks so much! Our daughter is going to try them this week and we let you know.

[UPDATE: 2 weeks later] We are going to send back this evening one of the violins you sent us for trial and keep the other.

Our daughter smiles every time practice with her new violin, thanks so much! As you said, they are both fantastic instruments!

I just left the violin in the Canada Post office. Thank You So Much for making things practical and easy!

I really appreciate all your support! Thanks so much again! :)

November 30, 2021

Much better than any violin I’ve tried in Toronto

One of the best places to buy a violin in Canada

The violins arrived perfectly, and they look even better in person than I expected. I have been playing the three violins for a few days now.

909: Easy to play. It does have a slight metallic / sonorous sound. I am guessing this is owing to the break-in period.

Moneff: Clear, and sweet tone. Wonderful violin.

Stankov: Clear, and vibrant, specially on the E-string. Excellent violin.

I find the Moneff and Stankov quite similar. They are both very clear, and deep. Much better than any violin I’ve tried in Toronto. I think I am going to focus on these two, and show them to my teacher this Monday before deciding. I noticed that the E string on Stankov projects more than the E string on Moneff.

[Update: 1 week later] Good news! I have decided to keep the Stankov. It’s such an amazing instrument.

[Official Product Review]

I tried over 20 violins in Toronto, and couldn't really find one that spoke to me.

Getting violins on trial from a website was a strange concept, but I gave it a shot. I tried three violins sent by Rhiannon, and they absolutely blew away what I had tried locally in Toronto until then.

I always like to know about the source of materials used in the things I purchase, and, at least in Toronto, it was common to come across violins that use unethically obtained animal parts like mother of pearl. It was a relief to learn that Rhiannon runs an eco-conscious store, and doesn't sell violins that use animal parts.

In the end I decided to go with a violin made by Ivan Stankov. It's a beautiful violin, with a very deep and rich sound.

Rhiannon has been very helpful with her advice, and keeping me on top of everything. I can highly recommend Fiddleheads, and the violins they sell.

I really hope you win the [environmental] award. About time they start giving awards to socially conscious businesses. I have had a great experience with Fiddleheads.

September 1, 2021

Rhiannon's setup is so fantastic that it's hard to stop playing!

Thank you so much, I'm thrilled and really looking forward to bonding! I really appreciate your thoroughness and all the time recordings must have taken!

Thank you for all the emails, your attention to detail and expert advice. There have been so many changes during the past 15 months …not a good work time, but I'm thankful for music.

[Update: 10 days later] My new baby arrived a few hours ago and it's everything I dreamed /hoped it would be!

Even in this short time, it seems so happy to be pouring out rich notes and I'm loving it!

Such a beautifully made instrument -the figuring on the back looks amazingly like leaves… I may call her Ivy!

I actually prefer online shopping for most things (being a slow shopper)- it takes 'time' and 'pressure' out of the equation. You've got the perfect recipe. I'm definitely a fan!

[Update: 2 days later] Ivy is staying in tune now... gotta love those Evah's! I'm playing sooo much more lately, thank you so much for making this possible!

Thank you so much for all your preparation and careful attention to detail (and also for all the lovely extras- so thoughtful!) when the elements and email conspired against us, you proved that the perfectionist always triumphs!

I'm super grateful to you for making this whole process stress free! XXOO It's been such a pleasure... I will be sure to pass on your cards to interested players. I'll absolutely promise to write the MOST GLOWING review on google... my pleasure! Reviews are mostly what people have to go on these days. I always look at them.

[REVIEW: Google, 5 stars] Imagine that your best friend (a professional musician and violin expert) has offered to curate a small group of amazing violins in your budget, then provide their unlimited knowledge, advice and a trial periodall this without having to leave your home!

She has raised the bar for online shopping, providing stunningly accurate photos with incredibly detailed information for each instrument, combined with trustworthy payment methods and superbly packaged delivery.

I purchased a beautiful Angela Moneff violin chosen from a 'blind' sound test... I'm absolutely in love with the full, resonant sound and the gorgeous maple figuring on the back & sides.

Rhiannon's setup is so fantastic that it's hard to stop playing!

July 10, 2021

Very happy with my decision to shop here

The fiddle is great, love it, thank you. I, on the other hand, am not so great on the fiddle, but then again that's part of the fun!

I'm happy with the fiddle. It's a keeper.

[REVIEW: Google, 5 stars] Thanks to Rhiannon for taking the time to discuss my needs and give me some time to test the fiddle chosen online before deciding to keep it. Very happy with my decision and the help I received.

June 28, 2021

With this violin my daughter's playing has notably improved, and it takes far less cajoling to get her to practice.

Your violins arrived on our doorstep today! Thanks so much. They arrived in perfect condition.

Don MacDonald [a professional violinist and film composer] is going to swing by and help us tune them up, and give each one a wee test drive, before we do the "big reveal" with my daughter Caitlin this evening. She still has no clue that all this is happening. We'll keep you posted. So exciting.

[UPDATE: 6 hours later] Well, Rhiannon. Don came by to try all 3 violins (before my daughter), and thought there was no question: the Zhu 907. Hearing him play all three, I'd have to say I agree.

The richness of sound is remarkable, and stands out head and shoulders over the other two [905 and Rose Valley].

Certainly was more than I'd budgeted for, but it's hard to argue with the difference in quality and sound, when the instruments are played side by side.

Don, by the way, was so blown away that he is now on a mission to find a new violin. He thought the 907 he tried today was a finer instrument than the one he has been playing for the last four decades. Expect to hear from him soon...

Thanks so much, again, Rhiannon. It's been such a pleasure doing this with you. You've been so responsive, so thorough, and so patient.

We couldn't be happier with the violin, too! Hopefully we get to meet you in person sometime.

[Review: 2 weeks later] My daughter had outgrown her student violin, and was in need of a significant upgrade. A trusted friend (who happens to be a professional violinist and composer) recommended we check out Fiddleheads.

Although a bit nervous and skeptical about purchasing a violin online, my concerns were immediately allayed after my first conversation with Rhiannon.

It was clear that her priority was ensuring that my daughter got matched with the right instrument, and she went to great lengths to understand what "the right instrument" meant to us.

She was informative, patient, understanding, and extremely timely and responsive to our many questions, over the course of [a phone and some email] conversations.

She ultimately shipped us three different violins to trial, all of which met our criteria, and all well within the price range we'd discussed. (The shipping was surprisingly hassle-free and quick.)

We ultimately settled on a Zhu 907, having been blown away by the instrument's richness of tone, warmth, and playability.

Rhiannon's expert efforts in setting up the violin prior to them being shipped out were immediately obvious, as the violin came "out of the box" performance-ready.

Since acquiring the instrument, my daughter's playing has notably improved, and it takes far less cajoling to get her to practice.

We are so grateful for the incredible service Rhiannon provided us, and thank her deeply for the joy this new instrument is bringing all of us.

I recommend her services 100%.

[Read Don's review of this violin - Read Don's Review of the VN-909 he purchased a year later]

March 12, 2021

An excellent experience from start to finish

I'm looking forward to spending a great deal of time with this new instrument. It is lovely! I greatly appreciate the service and your efforts to make everything just right for me!

Thank you for your response regarding my concerns about the imperfections on the fiddle finish. Overall, I am very happy with the fiddle and do not think my concerns are worth making an exchange.

I have enjoyed playing it and find the quality of the instrument and the sound a big improvement over my first instrument. I greatly appreciate your offer to 'make things right', but honestly, I don't think any of the glitches were because of anything you did! The post office messed up, the bling was sent (I just didn't look hard enough), and the quality of the violin isn't affected by the [small surface] marks.

So all of this to say, I would like to proceed with the purchase. I guess my next step is to consider a bow upgrade!

Thanks again for your care and support throughout this transaction. I'll definitely send recommendations your way!

[REVIEW: Google, 5 stars] Dealing with Rhiannon has been an excellent experience from start to finish. She was quick to respond to messages, and to make sure there was nothing more that she could do for me to make sure I was happy with my purchase.

My violin arrived extremely well packaged and it's lovely!

March 11, 2021

Enjoyable trial with a clear winner once I increased my budget

Thanks for getting these to me Rhiannon! They all look great, although the Scarlatta looks the best. I've played them all for a few minutes each and definitely feel the "upgrade" in quality from my old heirloom.

This will be fun to get to know these beautiful instruments.

I'm sure it will be tough to decide which is best! Will keep working with them this week and my teacher is going to get a chance to try them as well.

[UPDATE: 1 day later] I'm into playing them and really enjoying comparing combinations of bows and violins. Early impressions are that the Scarlatta and Seraphina are head and shoulders above the VN 102 sound quality and feel.

The Seraphina is feeling very warm and rich sounding.

The Scarlatta a little brighter.

I know the strings have to come along yet so in no hurry to make a decision yet.

I am finding the lower tones on the Seraphina very attractive and the Scarlatta slightly superior in the higher tones and appearance.

Interestingly, my instructor did a "blind" test of the three you sent me, not knowing which was the more expensive or names and she had a very similar feel for them.

[UPDATE: 2 weeks later] Thank you for sending me the Rose Valley violin when I already had violins on trial. In the end it was not difficult. I will go with the Rose Valley Violin from Angela Moneff!

After playing it for the last few days, I just find it sweeter and more even in its tone than either the Seraphina or the Scarlatta.

And of course I will keep the [deluxe] case.

Thanks so much for your patience and this has been a great process to work through.

I'll definitely write up a positive review for you and Fiddleheads!

March 1, 2021

I literally shed tears of joy the first time I played this violin

This gorgeous violin is not just another violin, it's truly a work of art!

Where do I begin to start with how magnificent this instrument sings?

Effortless; every time I pick up this violin in my hands to practice its as if it transports me to another world, a dream realm, a concert stage. Truly a pleasure and a gift to play!

I started my musical journey when I was seven, but didn’t officially become persistent at learning until my latter teens. Technically you could say I had a later start in life to music; and throughout the years acquiring a few different violins.

The hunt for a new violin began once I realized my current intermediate violin was holding me back from progression or advancing in technique. I was becoming discouraged by the inadequate sound and playability quality of it. Out-growing the instrument

Reaching out to Rhiannon was the best thing I did! I had a few specific needs and wants in a new lifetime violin. At the time I felt like I was a bit vague, or still trying to find my voice in a superior instrument. Definitely not lost any more in this aspect thanks to Rhiannon! She went above and beyond helping and guiding me in finding exactly what I was looking for.

After narrowing it down, I had the privilege to try out two violins, one by Pawel Migiel and the other by Tomasz Kowalski. Both models were fashioned after Guarneri del Gesu violins.

Once my bow made contact with the violin, no lie, I began to shed tears. Not of sadness, but in awe of how a superior violin has no equal in craftsmanship, tone, comfort, and most important the power of its sound.

Initially, the Migel violin had a very quick response and warm up time. Projecting its sound quality straight away. With first impressions this drew me to consider that this violin was in par with my playing ability now. Making this violin feel like the proper choice.

Before I tested out the sound quality of the Kowalski I was astonished with the artistry and beauty of the violin. I didn't want aesthetics to be my main influencing factor of my decision. Sound and playability were most important.

At first the quality of sound was comparable to the Migel, but after a good twenty to thirty minutes of warm up it started to surpass, becoming superior. Upon examining this instrument further, I noticed it demanded perfection, or a soloist touch. In a sense I felt inadequate to play it.

Feeling confused I reached out to Rhiannon and shared my finding with comparing both violins. She didn't make the choice for me, but she helped me to see why and what I was experiencing when playing. Rhiannon's knowledge, input, and expertise were invaluable!

She offers a great, stress free trial period. If I only had an hour to chose, I would have made a grave mistake. Above all I had plenty of time to decide the prefect fit in the comfort of my own home.

After further playing I noticed that there were limitations with the Migel. An example of this was if my finger positioning happened to be slightly off the violin would hide those imperfections. I felt like there was a limit it would reach and could not pass. I was looking for an instrument with that above and beyond performance level.

The main qualities and reasons I chose the Kowalski violin as my musical voice happen to be its demand for preciseness. I had to play in tune for it to really resonate fully. It was teaching me!

After talking with Rhiannon, she, using her analogies and musical understanding, helped me to see that a relationship with this instrument would allow me to grow in tone, technique, and over all music ability. I was enthralled with the idea that this violin would teach me to become an advance player in the years to come.

Set up can make all the difference in your musical experience. Rhiannon takes the time to set up each violin to her clients needs and preferences. Outfitting them with high quality strings, bridge placement (whether you’re a classical or fiddle player), as well as chin rest adjustments; amongst other things.

Even if you're not exactly sure what you're looking for the fit and feel are comfortable while practicing or preforming. In turn her quality assurance puts the violin to the test to make sure its everything you were looking for.

Tomasz Kowalski designs his instruments to excel in superiority over time. Even now I can confirm that! I can't stress it enough, each time I practice on this violin it improves in sound; through its projection and tone harmony. To have only been made in 2018 this gorgeous instrument sounds like it has been around for centuries. Truly a violin fit for a soloist!

Enthusiastically I can say “I made the right choice”! with putting my faith in Rhiannon’s talented skillfulness and expertise in assisting and guiding me to find my unbelievably beautiful violin.

December 9, 2020

Bow trial result

Thank you for sending me some options to choose from.

It is a bit of adjustment from my old bow but I'm confident I will soon adjust to its personality.

September 9, 2020

Our picky teacher couldn’t stop raving how “AMAZING” and “very beautiful” this violin is

I was looking to replace my daughter's Gliga violin with something that had a better sound and in a smaller 7/8 size than 4/4. After researching online, we decided to try the VN-102 violin with a 2-week at-home trial to Montreal, Quebec. 


We previously bought a Gliga Gems 2 violin (in 4/4) and her teacher hated it because it didn’t project and it required too much work to get a good sound out of it. My daughter is 18 and has been playing for 10 years. She is an intermediate violinist and not very motivated to go much farther.

The transaction was simple. Upon receiving the violin by mail, we compared the two and immediately noticed that the VN-102 had an amazing resonance and that the Gliga's sound was very muffled.

We took the violin to be approved by our violin teacher since he is very picky and hated our old violin. He just loved the 102 and couldn't stop raving. In his words; "You got an AMAZING (with all capital letters) violin. It's awesome.”

So, obviously we kept it.

Rhiannon, the owner, was very friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful during the selection and ordering process.

The violin was securely packaged and it arrived quickly, in perfect condition. It is a beautiful instrument with a great sound, 100% approved by our violin teacher.

Thanks for preparing [setting up] Very happy, overall. Thank you!

August 25, 2020

Rhiannon is like a best friend helping you through the decision-making process!

[REVIEW: Google and Facebook, 5 stars] Rhiannon was an absolute dream to deal with.

Quick responses, kind, funny, helpful....like a best friend helping you through the decision-making process!

The violins are beautiful and very well-priced. Rhiannon shipped [907 and 909] violins to us in Ontario, helped us make our selections (very patiently) and then we shipped back what we didn’t need.

It was a very easy process, and we appreciated being able to play the violins in our own home and in our comfort zone.

We also purchased 2 beautiful cases as well.

100% satisfied with the purchase and the process. Thanks so much Rhiannon!

[Lori purchased the 909 for herself and the 907 for her daughter]

July 8, 2020

Narrowing down my options has been enjoyable and rewarding

This is pretty darned exciting! Thanks again for your suggestions, comments and prompt responses to my e-mails, Rhiannon.

I’m going to go with the Zhu violin - primarily because, to my ear, it seems to voice better on fiddle tunes (if that makes sense).The Bellissima Scarlatta is a bit softer and if I was going to focus on classical music I would have chosen it over the Zhu.

The violin strings are still playing in. The lower range of the instrument is opening-up quite a bit - very slightly less so for the A and E strings - but overall the sound is still even. I’ve had the tailpiece installed and tweaked the bridge a little bit to allow for more “fiddle” type bowing.

I’m going to enjoy this violin.

I’ve been taking Royal Conservatory lessons with the local Music Society and, if you believe my instructor, I could challenge the Grade 4 exam and pass relatively easily. I’ll be moving onto the Grade 5 syllabus in January. I’m also taking fiddle lessons via Zoom with an Irish player out of Washington State.

Thanks for the suggestions on the violins, how to improve the (really my) sound…, and your comment on the break-in time.

[UPDATE: 5 months later] I’ve waited 5 months after my purchase to write this review because I wanted to get over the initial excitement of having a new violin.

The violin sound is opening-up significantly and suits the type of music I play. Things have worked out really well and in summary, I have absolutely no regrets regarding the quality of the instrument, and the guidance and service Rhiannon provided was excellent.

My initial inquiries and questions were answered quickly and, after a few back and forth e-mails to determine what I was looking for, Rhiannon suggested that I try out two violins. She shipped them promptly and I had the instruments in hand within five days.

Both instruments had been strung with the same type of strings to make the comparison more valid, and were spot-on as far as quality of sound and build. It was a challenging assessment, but a good problem to have.

During the three weeks I took to decide, Rhiannon sent a couple of short, “any questions ?”, e-mails; however, I never had the feeling that I was being pestered.

I’m very pleased with the violin I eventually purchased.

I think Fiddleheads offers a very practical and needed alternative to the typical “bricks and mortar” violin store for purchasing a violin.

June 3, 2020