Our Website

Expertise and genuine care from a sustainable business

I truly appreciate the depth of knowledge and passion you display about the art and craftsmanship of violins and bows. [Fiddleheads' policies] align with my values of sustainability and efficiency.

Your detailed insight about violins, their maintenance, and your business philosophy has been truly enlightening.

I value the empowerment of clients, and it's refreshing to see someone in the industry championing this.

Our conversation has been instrumental in shaping my outlook. I was initially hesitant due to previous experiences with the local market, but you've turned that around. I can say with confidence that when the time comes for me to upgrade, I will be looking to make that purchase from you.

Thank you for being a beacon on my "musical adventure" and for guiding me with such expertise and genuine care. Once again, thank you for your unwavering support and guidance.

August 30, 2023

I trusted Rhiannon to choose this violin for me

Thanks for making the process easier, especially with all of the outfit components.

My earlier part of the journey was longer and didn't originally include the 909 (originally was 903 and below).

It took a lot of listening sessions from various video sources to sort things out. One odd item that stood out was that one video [from another shop] seemed to intentionally play differently on the 909 perhaps to showcase their own product (as they didn't even carry the 909).

Thankfully, my long list of questions got sorted out along the journey [thanks to Fiddleheads' site]. I trust your eyes on [the selection] that more than I trust mine. Normally audio would be more important but I already trust your ear way more than mine.

Your stories and achievements are quite inspirational.

May 23, 2023

Honest and trusted guide

I came across your website when I was researching buying a violin for my 12-year old son.

After I explored your website a bit, it feels like you are an honest and can be trusted guide with a professional background.

April 30, 2023

Perfect match for my Baroque violin

I unwrapped your bow and I'm just thrilled!! It's wonderful!

The bow is a perfect match for jacobus stainer copy I use, since it's built in the baroque style and has a light, sweet sound.

And thank you for the treats, too. Cookie cutter... :D !

Love your site, love your energy, love your kindness!

February 15, 2023

Absolutely in love with my Kowalski

I am an amateur involved in a community orchestra, an outreach quartet and octet. I am absolutely in love with [my Kowalski viola] instrument. I pulled out my violin after a couple of months on the viola and was disappointed in the sound. I thought I had a pretty nice violin.

I have to pay off my new viola. Afterwards I will be looking for my forever violin. YOU are wonderful and I am very tempted [to accept financing]!

Thanks so much for your wonderful email. I am so impressed with your website and reviews. I have learned quite a bit. Thank you again for your generous attention.

December 29, 2022

Outstanding! Professional & Human, with a touch of Magic!

Rhiannon, you rock! I like the personal touch... and that's really what sold me out on your website (beside the fact that it came out first in my search this morning, LOL).

I was completing my order when all the products in my cart became "Out of Stock". I [planned to] check again tomorrow (and every following day, if necessary) to see if your website was fixed. In the meantime, I was able to enter my addresses, so, easy peasy!

The website came back! Thanks a bunch, Rhiannon. Super appreciated. Santa's elves brought back your products! And I was able to order with the e-transfer!

Despite the crashing bug, which you fixed in no time, your website is top-noch. Can't wait to see & hear all this magic 'live' from [my nephew] Moose. He's currently learning a reel with a friend every Friday night as a Xmas present to our ears.

Thanks for everything, and especially the hugs of gratitude. Hugs of peace & joy back, enjoy the season! Dans la grâce!

[UPDATE: 5 stars google: Outstanding! Professional & Human, with a touch of Magic!

August 24, 2022

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

A master in her craft and her thoughtfulness, kindness and honesty makes Rhiannon stand apart from other violin shops

My town, Windsor Ontario, does not have a reputable seller or luthier that I could find. I had access to other cities nearby and I visited at least 4 luthiers and tried at least 20 instruments and took home 4 for trials. The sound quality of [other shops'] violins did not match sticker prices at all. It was frustrating and I worried I would have to spend a lot more money than was reasonable.

So understandably I convinced myself to try online sellers and started getting quotes and tried to consider the risks involved with each one. I quickly realized how retailers were using (manipulative) selling tactics to lure customers in.

Then I found Fiddleheads and all my worries disappeared.

I now believe I made the best decision in the process going with Fiddleheads and Rhiannon Nachbaur.

In my humble opinion, customer service, trust, and loyalty are what makes a business successful. Do yourself a favor and before you pull the trigger, try Rhiannon and you will be surprised.

Rhiannon is knowledgeable and a master in her craft and what makes her so successful, is her thoughtfulness, kindness and honesty which is hard to find these days. No wonder she has been able to maintain a reputable and successful business recognized by many institutions and professionals.

With Fiddleheads and Rhiannon there are no games and tricks and once you add up the numbers, you will be surprised to see you will also save tons of money, while enjoying the peace of mind that you will be getting a certified instrument, and will be supported along the way until you are satisfied with your purchase.

Rhiannon played my instrument for me, sent numerous high-quality pictures from all angles and so I knew exactly what I was getting. She was responsive and prompt in responding to my questions and concerns, even after my purchase and that's something!

There are no middlemen or whole sellers involved, as she deals straight with the makers and also introduces them in detail in the website.

I am so glad I reached out to Rhiannon and Fiddleheads. People are getting smarter. It doesn't matter what marketing these others have to make sales, people will figure out they are being cheated.

Rhiannon, however, is very transparent and clear with her information. She gives us what we want. There are no gimmicks and no selling tactics. She doesn't charge too much for violins or shipping.

Thank you, Rhiannon, for all your support and for helping me make the right choice. I am very happy with my purchase and I am glad I know you and that I can count on your support.

I recommend all players try Fiddleheads before all other shops. You will be dealt like someone special, and very soon you will feel you have known Rhiannon for many years!

July 6, 2022

A teacher who will always recommend Fiddleheads

A big thanks for helping out Guy [my student] last week with the [909] violin purchase. It was a gift for his wife, and she is delighted with it. She came to my studio today (www.violinlessonsnorthumberland.ca) for her lesson.

I have seen your new website. Well done, and by yourself too. I am glad that you have survived the pandemic and are still in business.

I recommend you by giving out your cards. I will continue, as always to recommend your shop, and wish you all the best!

February 14, 2022

Hand-picked instruments here are superior to 'mass marketed' junk at other shops

I am so glad that your business, Fiddleheads, is thriving. I have followed it for years.

You demonstrate such wonderful ethics and values.

I am embarrassed that I haven't written sooner about my appreciation… of your great work encouraging string playing.

I was a double-bass player for many decades and know the value of quality string instruments. (Your article on Blair Borden touched me deeply.)

Your hand-picked instruments are obviously so much better than the 'mass marketed' junk found all over the internet.

December 24, 2021

Christmas gift for our family

I placed an order for a fiddle for my daughter (21 years old)... we are looking forward to Christmas morning as it is a gift.

Thanks for your help last winter, I am really enjoying learning to play & lessons are often the highlight of my week :)

Violin wise, I am working the the 1st Suzuki book, as well as French folk song, rosin the bow, a bunch in the learn to fiddle book, edelweiss & now a few Christmas tunes... so much to learn yet, but I am happy with my progress :)

So excited to gift my daughter this instrument! I have twin girls - the other is getting a guitar. Need to keep doing joyful things in these strange [Covid] times.

All the best, your new website is lovely.

November 25, 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

I would not buy from anywhere else

Your new website is tremendous, with such a professional but Rhiannon-personal feel.

I don't remember if it was in your old website but I particularly enjoyed your personal, extensive bio.

Also, all your accolades from clients present you in a shining light. Sadly, though, for reasons I totally understand, a website can't include all the humor and irreverence that is your hallmark in personal contacts.

Your inventory is amazing. I'm starting to think you weren't joking with me in talking at one point about your "back warehouse."

I want to assure you that I would not buy from somebody else since you've done all the work and and since you unquestionably are more fun to work with. It's the least I can do since you guaranteed without hesitation that I would not burst spontaneously in flames. [Inside joke]

Thanks again for all your fine attention.

July 8, 2021

What a site!

Your new site is beautiful and well laid out! Congrats on the launch of your new website! :)

June 8, 2021

I never knew that I could have so much fun and so much confidence in a shopping experience!

It's here! My new baby has arrived! I'm so happy.

First off, I've inspected and everything looks and feels to be in perfect condition.

Second, IT'S GORGEOUS! I'm sure it would be able to serve as a lifetime instrument, and the certificate will be a bonus to have and for when I eventually pass it on.

Earlier I thought the higher models were beyond me. I horseback ride and beginners are started on simple equipment because, though expert models allow for more technical expression, these same characteristics allow for more mistakes. I have found it similar with friends who figure skate, pro-level skates are "too much boot" for novices.

And so, Rhiannon, I was pleasantly surprised when you freely suggested all the way up to the 909! I also thought that if I got the 903, 905 or 907, then sooner or later, I will wish I had gotten the 909.

My only hesitation was that the 909 would be the second most expensive single object that I own, so there's this slight twinge in my chest. But then again, Lifetime Instrument. The testimonials you sent me were encouraging too, I loved it when they gave sound/tone descriptions.

Back to violins, you definitely don't have to worry about bursting my bubble regarding Zhu's work. It's rather that I don't have any faith in my own ability! I am the type to play through a piece, make one slip or grind and cry because, "Wow, I suck. I can't trial a violin adequately with these skills!" LOL

My first impression of the violin was: “Gosh, it's so light!” To be entirely honest with you, I thought "can such a light thing be good quality"? Then I plucked the strings and ohhh, it's realllll. LOL! WOWZA. MAMMA MIA.

I gotta tell you, Rhi. I was afraid that my lack of skill was the problem and I feared that I would get a $4k instrument and not be able to make it sound better than my $600 outfit. But I was wonderfully wrong!

Just during tuning, the sound was much richer. Then I played a few scales... and the fourth finger sounded even better than open string! Shifting never felt so good before. I'm sooooo happy! I had time to play for near an hour and my arm and neck barely felt anything, which it totally would have [been a problem] with my old violin.

So far, the shoulder rest feel quite comfortable, I will definitely send you an update after the instrument and I have partnered up for a month or two :)

Thank you so much for your patience, helpfulness, and dealing with my moods. :) I'm so glad to have picked your shop for this purchase.

[UPDATE: 1 week later] You really are giving uncertain and overwhelmed violin shoppers like me such relief and peace of mind.

In fact, when my mother saw your email replies, she declared: "This person puts so much effort in her work and service, she's definitely not an online fraud."

I'm excited to report back to you on how I'm doing with the Zhu violin :D It's been a week now and I think this is what others mean when they talk about the instrument "opening up".

Wow, the strength of the vibrations and projection are definitely a class above what I've experienced before. It sounds warmer and more "smooth/relaxed" then when I first got it. I'm not sure why, but the finger positions are slightly different from my old violin so I have been working hard on playing in tune again. But man, when I do, it feels and sounds sooo good!

I may not have given the instrument and strings enough time to settle yet, but I currently feel that the G string is a little too thick sounding while the E string sounds too thin. Excuse me for not knowing the proper terms to explain, but for my personal preference, the G string's sound seems... unfocused. Like if we were to imagine its' amplitude graph, the peak would be super spread out. In fact, the tuner often has trouble telling what note I'm playing on the G string when I'm trying to check a finger placement.

As for the E string, I wouldn't say its painfully piercing, rather just... thin. It feels like it lacks substance, solidness. If I bow more firmly, then it does improve but also becomes a little shrill to my ears. It would be nice to have warmer, richer high notes.

On the positive side, the A string is solid and I am IN LOOOOOVE with the D string. The sound is so warm yet also vibrant, it really sings! When I play, I can't help but happily sway all over the place lol.

Now that I have a decent feel for the violin, I will write my review for Fiddleheads in the the coming week. It will definitely be solar levels of glowing review.

[UPDATE: 2 weeks later] I really enjoy such long and information-filled letters. Thank you so much for your advice, it really gives me peace of mind going forward :D

The fact that strings and the instrument 'mature' and 'open up' is so interesting, it really feels alive in a way.

Currently, I'm very pleased with how the E string sounds significantly warmer and less 'wimpy' (lol) than before.

I've never been so motivated to practice. I really liked all the information you generously shared despite me not really being a student of yours. It's fascinating to read all this knowledge about these seemingly simple instruments, all these techniques and little improvements that make big differences.

Thank you so much for your advice, it really gives me peace of mind going forward :D

[REVIEW: Google, 5 stars] I never knew that I could have so much fun and so much confidence in a shopping experience!

In my first email to Rhiannon, I was nervous to purchase an instrument entirely online, and so wrote a lot regarding what I was looking for. Her reply completely surpassed my expectations with its friendly warmth and wealth of information. It was truly as if I had walked into a physical shop who's owner became a good friend within minutes.

Over the following few weeks, Rhi patiently answered my piles of questions and gave me plenty of help and time for my indecisive self to choose the best violin for me. I certainly had not expected to learn so much during a shopping process!

I've had my Zhu 909 for a few weeks now. It arrived in perfect condition along with the gorgeous deluxe case and a couple other accessories that I'd ordered.

It's my first violin of this quality and I have never enjoyed playing as much as now. The instrument continues to open up, constantly sounding even richer, warmer and brighter.

Rhiannon was flexible with bundling and payments and continues guide me with her effective advice and good humour.

For anyone who read this long review: If your searching for a quality violin or viola, send Rhiannon an email and give Fiddleheads a try!

November 23, 2020