Thank you so much for the offer to come and get the beautiful violin, at the halfway point of payment. I am greatly excited to begin playing her!!
I wish you a good surgery and quiet recovery time.
"When the World is back to normal again"
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!
Rhiannon, thank you for your kind, supportive words!
Your willingness to work out financing means just as much as your words of support.This has really made my year! The estimate you sent was even less than expected, and [the violin] looks perfect to me. I can hardly believe it’s possible.
I’m glad you talked me out of the Eastman! The best I can say about the Eastman I’m renting now is... it’s functional and it was available. I’m much more interested in getting my hands on the Seraphina and discovering its personality.
Rhiannon... You are the best. I would gush more—you deserve it—but I’ll attempt to keep both our screen times minimal right now.
Giddy and grateful, Kristin.
[UPDATE: 2 weeks later] My Seraphina is... sure not [a cheap online option].
I couldn’t play my new baby for long today, but I’m still speechless from the rich sounds I’ve coaxed out so far. The D string shocked me with how meaty it was already.
Can’t wait to break/play it in. Preferably when not in a surreal/zombie state.
I just want to thank you again for offering me the [discount]. That was something over and above to offer.
Thanks again for your time and help. I feel like I have made a friend as well!
I received the violin and everything looks in good shape. So far I've been playing and it sounds pretty nice.
I noticed the G and D string resonate really well, but the A and E string sound much more muted in comparison. I'm trying to play the violin more to see if those strings will sound better.
[UPDATE] Thank you for your helpful input about the violin and strings breaking in. I guess I should just play more from now on!
Thank you for the additional discount and taking payments, it's greatly appreciated.
I'm keeping the violin! Thank you for all your help and your patience.
A lot of people are telling me not to buy online or without at least hearing it. I am going with my gut that you pick good instruments.
I am very excited. I can't sit still, I have big dreams for this fiddle
[UPDATE: 1 week later] I got my violin today but to my surprise, it turned out to be a fiddle. lol. I love it.
Thank you for taking payments during Covid19. You are a great person, you really are.
I don't know what else to say. You have made me very happy. Thank you.
Slàinte Mhath (Gaelic for Good Health)
[UPDATE: 2 months later] I am enjoying the violin.
My older one is in rough shape and it took me like an hour to tune. My new one takes no time at all. It's great to be able to pick it up and play.
I am so happy with it. Thank you, you're a good friend.
Thanks a bunch. The deposit was easier to make than I realized.
I didn't have to go very far at all... I discovered Chase had a location in my backyard. It really made the entire process easy.
If you just heard a loud "YES" from southeast of you don't be alarmed, it's just me in Virginia. I know you must think I'm some nut case but I promise you I'm not, just really excited to get a Topa.
I've been checking my emails multiple times a day hoping to hear from you. It's so exciting that it's close to happening.
I trust your judgement on how to handle the setup, do whatever you think is best as you trust the people you're dealing with Email can't adequately describe the grin on my face right now!
I must tell you this buying experience has been wonderful, thank you! Thanks again for being so wonderful to deal with. With highest regards from a customer and new fan...
[UPDATE REVIEW 3 months later: Google, 5 stars] I was ready to upgrade to a better violin and began researching the options. I quickly settled on a Wojciech Topa Guarneri model.
They are not easy to find but Rhiannon found what I was looking for, sold it to me at a great price and offered multiple options for processing the transaction.
The purchase was a wonderful experience and I will not even consider shopping elsewhere in the future. I wish all my business dealings were as pleasant and positive as this one was. Kudos to Rhiannon for a job well done.
And thank you, thank you, thank you! You made my day [by accepting payments]! Actually, probably my whole year! I am going to try and get that money together as soon as possible.
[UPDATE] Played a gig today. And the violin sounded great! The sound has opened up even in the little bit I've been playing it.
So I am falling for it, I think we'll have our happy ending. :) Thanks again, sooo much, for your help and flexibility.
I was surprised to get an answer from Rhiannon on a Sunday! I also appreciated the time she took on the phone to discuss the violins and I enjoyed our chat. During the trial she included an extra bow which gave us another option. She sent the items quickly and gave us the tracking number.
The violins did the trip well except for a loose E string on one, which I can just rewound into the peg. It was great timing, as we had a lesson that evening so our teacher took a look at them too.
Rhiannon was great to work with and allowed me to make payments. My daughter is loving her new violin.
Thanks so much Rhiannon, your offer of discounted shipping and for the early sale too! I will keep you in mind for "step up" violins when we all improve with our playing and other items.
It really is nice to find someone out there who runs an honest business. All of your info on your site is so helpful too.
Thanks for having Paypal, it makes everything so easy, and for sending it so fast when you were sick. I would of told you to wait though!
I don't really trust anyone in the violin business except you.
You're very kind to already have [an emergency replacement part] in the mail. I'll get on with Paypal today.
I loved Fiddeheads 909 model from the first touch. I love it, I also hope it will sound richer with the time.
You were very thoughtful that sent to me two of these violins to try. I will introduce the other violin to two of my students who need to change their old instruments.
I would appreciate if you will have some other models sound similar in future I will ask you for another trial.
I am very happy with 909 so as we agreed I will send you final payment.
I really appreciate your good will and I am very happy to have business with you.
I am glad you find [my violin purchased at another shop] easier to play and sounding better. I value your opinion a great deal. am looking forward to getting it back. I had to work hard and use a lot of pressure to get something out of "The Beast" before.
I will have to change its name to Beauty now instead of the Beast.
Thanks so much for fixing up all that could be fixed and I am greatly encouraged that you find it so much improved. You shipped the lot to me without payment. Now that's trust.
I will absolutely let you know when the parcel arrives. I am really looking forward to the transformation from beast to beauty! Anyway, send along the invoice and I will send along the payment with great appreciation and thanks for your great service.
My daughter is getting a new case, I get a new shoulder rest and mute and a new and improved violin along with a great customer experience. A guy can't lose!
[UPDATE] I haven't had much chance to play my violin yet, but my very first impression is that it is a different instrument than the one I sent off to you. It is so much easier to play. A light pressure with the bow is all that is needed now whereas I needed lots of pressure to get much out it, especially the G string.
The tone is much sweeter as you said. I can still hear some of the nasalness you mentioned but the overall quality of sound has improved so much I can live with some nasal quality. I'll just pretend its a fine French violin LOL.
I am very happy with the results and want to thank you and your luthier for taking the time and care turn the Beast into a Beauty.
I'm a bit sad to think that I waited for so long before I decided to do something about the fiddle as I have struggled with it for a long time, but if I ever need anything more done I know where I will be sending it along with my girl's instruments.
Eventually [my daughter] will want a new violin. She has made great progress this year and the red sparkly won't cut it for too much longer. I will turning to you when the time comes. I know I will be able to rely on you to provide a good quality experience for her.
Thanks so much again for all you have done. It has been real fun being in touch with you once again and a great pleasure doing business with you.
