Use: Orchestral

Gorgeous, adjustable, comfortable, gets a lot of compliments!

Gorgeous! One of my go-to accessory pieces of jewellery!

Fiddleheads' handcrafted Violin charm bracelet is stunning.

I love all of the music notations, instruments, and floral designs, etc. It's adjustable and very comfortable to wear, with no skin irritation.

It also makes for a great gift for someone special like friends or family. My mom has one too, and she doesn't even need to play violin to appreciate it.

Every time I've worn this piece I got loads of compliments…highly recommend anyone to pick up this gorgeous bracelet!

May 29, 2023

I found the perfect bow

Over the years I've played on a number of different bows, some from Asia, and also some from Europe; but I've always been seeking to find "that perfect bow".

I have to say I think I've found it!

The Voxy Astute Bow is the perfect bow of both worlds, with that carbon fibre core and pernambuco wood cross over. The pernambuco on-lay gives you that traditional look and function that many players desire to have.

The first thing I noticed when picking up this bow, in my hands, was how light it is.

With the carbon fibre core being light weight and flexible I find the bow does not hold you back from different techniques you maybe trying to integrate into your bowling style. It sails smoothly through all styles of playing, various pace, pitch, and phenomenal handling.

I give the bow 5 stars!

The sound production I get out of my violin [read my review] is phenomenal with this bow! My low strings resonate with warmth and my high strings have a beautiful harmony with the Violin's natural resonance while using this bow.

I've had some bows in the past hinder my violin's sound and not allow me to get from piano all the way to forte. This bow does not hold you back...

I feel like a soloist, prima donna, diva when I have this bow in my right hand.

May 29, 2023

Sweet and powerful resonance beyond anything I have ever played

The Topa (I named it "Rhia") is slowly starting to show its true colour, it has a sweet and powerful resonance beyond anything I have ever played.

I spend at least an hour with her every day, and every day it sounds even better. It has also enabled me to actually leave the house with my MJZ 909, which has become my main "lesson"or recital instrument.

Just want you to know this whole on-line shopping experience has been a pleasure. Outside of a house or car, this purchase is probably the most expensive thing I have ever bought.

Thank you for taking the time to help me through this process. I am certain I would have never done it without the reassurance and peace of mind you have given me.

December 14, 2022

Much more violin than I expected

My new baby arrived today. Was amazed how light it was and how warm and sweet the tone is.

Rhiannon was right about how I would notice the difference between the Fiddleheads MJZ 909 and my Eastman Ivan Dunov. It is a nice step up for me.

The violin itself was everything I expected and more.

That being said, my next one will be my last one, and I hope to look for a "bench" made violin that I hope Rhiannon will help me find. I will report back again after I have spent a few months opening her up a bit.

[REVIEW: Google, 5 stars] Recently purchased my 2nd violin, upgrading from my Eastman Strings Ivan Dunov to Rhiannon's recommendation for me of the MJZ 909. Also purchased a new bow; VN65 and deluxe oblong case in blue.

First of, the customer service from Rhiannon was outstanding. She was very patient answering questions on the phone and via email until I was certain about everything.

The violin itself was everything I expected and more.

The projection and tone was both powerful and warm, and a nice step up from my student violin.

I am sure that in the next few months it will open up even more. The bow was nice, but for some reason, I seem to prefer my old one, perhaps because my old one is octagonal and feels easier for me to handle.

Thanks Rhiannon for all your help, hope to do business again when I upgrade to a bench made (I need to improve a bit first lol).

[UPDATE: 3 weeks later] FYI, My MJZ violin is only now starting to sing, and my god it sounds wonderful.

[UPDATE: 1 Month Later] I am writing once again to thank you for your incredible assistance in purchasing my MJZ 909. It truly is performing beyond my greatest expectations...

I am not a great violinist, (not even close) but I spend 3 to 4 hours a day immersed in practice, and it brings me more joy than I can explain.

My MJZ violin is only now starting to sing, and my god it sounds wonderful. My instructor, who is a lead violinist at symphony Nova Scotia, believes that... I may never outgrow my MJZ 909.

I just put MJ to bed after my final practice of the day. She never gives me trouble and always sounds sweet.

[Official Product Review] Buying a violin is leap of faith for many of us, especially in an on-line market place.

Needless to say, I did a ton of research which led me to Fiddleheads and Rhiannon. After much deliberation and consulting on what would suit me for an upgrade from my Eastman Ivan Dunov, the MJZ 909 became the prime candidate.

It arrived packed secure and safe in its case, and my first impression was how light it felt.

After drawing the bow a few times across it I knew right away Rhiannon was right about it being a good upgrade. The resonance and richness of its tone was the next thing I noticed, and this was just the beginning.

After a few weeks of playing it starting to really open up and show its true potential.

It seems is very playable and quite forgiving, especially for someone like me whom I would consider still a beginner after only a couple of years.

The sound quality is such that it makes me want to practice longer from the way it sings to me.

Although I am learning classical, I love to play fiddle tunes also, and my MJZ does both exceptionally well.

I had shopped around this model and Fiddleheads price was unbeatable, and the service and attention I received both before and after the sale was remarkable.

I think I have covered everything, but this process was as smooth as the perfect bow thanks to Rhiannon.

[PROS to Shopping at Fiddleheads] Award-Winning Owner, Eco-Friendly, Shop Exceeds Expectations, Fast Shipping, In-Home Trials, Ethics & Integrity, Expertise, Packaging & Safe Arrivals, Personal Connection, Proudly Canadian, Rhiannon's Entrepreneurship, Rhiannon's Musicianship

[PROS to this Product] Beats the Competition, Considerable Upgrade, Product Exceeds Expectations, Improves Playing, Luthier Setup, Playability/Ease of Use, Quality Craftsmanship, Tone & Tonal Improvement, Value/Good Price

November 8, 2022

This violin is a work of art that is taking me to a higher playing level

I am excited to have this remarkable Moneff violin take me to a higher level with my violin playing which has been so gratifying while at times also very humbling.

This violin is a work of art. It plays as well as it looks... amazing

I am confident in my choice although this planned holiday has cut short my time to interact efficiently with it.

[UPDATE: 8 months later] My Angela Moneff (2022) plays so very well as part of my Latin Jazz Band, at winery solo concerts and in Orchestral environments in Kamloops and in Salmon Arm.

The violin responds to every demand and is clearly a choice well made.

March 17, 2022

Baroque feel is unique

I'm a faculty and examiner at the Royal conservatory and wanted students to experience the feel of baroque bow. :)

Thank you for the goodies.

November 17, 2021

Buy a violin from a professional violinist

[In response to a Facebook post "Diamond rings are overrated. Buy her a violin from Fiddleheads instead."]

Or buy one from Fiddleheads for yourself. I did and it's the best gift and longest-lasting love I've given to myself.

I purchased four violins in my life. This violin is the one I am most happy with.

Lesson learned: listening to the experts, trying it out by professional players in different spaces to hear how it sound, and most of all, work with the vendor who is a professional violinist with good reputation and heart like Rhiannon!

October 16, 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

From a loyal customer

[REVIEW: Google, 5 stars] Amazing products and service! Rhiannon consistently delivers!

July 5, 2021

For use in a Youth Orchestra

My son plays for the Youth Strings Orchestra here in Winnipeg.

I look forward to… shopping from your online store in the future.

February 20, 2021

Our second violin from this maker

We purchased a Stankov 4/4 for my daughter with a VN-65 bow when she made the transition [to fulll size] in 2016. She is still enjoying it, studying at the University of Western Ontario, and involved in orchestra, etc.

We just purchased another 4/4 Stankov violin, this time for my son who is currently using my daughter's old 3/4 VN-909.

December 9, 2020

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

We all love this bow

My daughter, Emily, bought the Voxy Astute bow from you and loves it. [She is] working on her ARCT with her teacher [Okanagan Symphony Assistant Concertmaster] Susan Schaeffer.

Rhiannon is wonderful. We will support her business as long as we are allowed to play music in this crazy covid world!

November 18, 2020

Completely and totally overwhelmed: It sounds nothing short of magnificent

I could not be more pleased with the 2018 Guarneri Topa violin and deluxe suspension case I recently purchased through Fiddleheads!

The Topa itself is nothing short of thrilling to play. It is a joy to hear the warm, powerful yet clear, resonate sound that this instrument is capable of producing with ease. If you are in search of a life long player and the budget allows I cannot recommend enough taking a serious look at the Topas.

This violin exceeded any expectation I had. It does not hurt either that this is one beautiful fiddle in addition to the terrific playability and sound.

The customer service from Rhiannon was incredible from the first communication to follow up. I took a leap of faith trying mail order for such a violin purchase but from the first communication with Rhiannon I knew I was in good hands!!!

I was very clear about what I was hoping to find in an instrument and Rhiannon "knew" which violin should be mine......and she was 500% correct. Her charm and wit in addition to her instrument "match making powers" have earned a customer for life.

Thank you Fiddleheads!!!

Some messages sent during the purchase:

Rhiannon, you were just so incredible this whole process. Thank you so much for sending the sound sample and all the info you provided!!!! You definitely put my mind at ease!!!! I’m really glad we were able to connect through this process!!!! Just adds another element of making this fiddle even more special.

[UPDATE: 1 week later] Overwhelmed. Completely and totally overwhelmed. It sounds nothing short of magnificent. I nearly speechless for once!!!!!!

[My son] just loooooooves it. His first words where when I played a D-major scale were “holy sh*t!!!!!” I couldn’t even chastised him....he was totally right!!!!! Thank you sooooooo much! I cannot even describe how I feel. Hahaha I totally shed some tears this afternoon! My Mom would have loved this too. Just wow!!!!!

I would love to leave a proper review for your website in a few days after I calm the heck down. I really grateful to have had this experience with you and the end result of having this incredible violin that will long outlast even me!!!!

[UPDATE: 2 weeks later] After the initial shock wore off.....I keep loving that fiddle more and more!!!! There’s even times when I play it I just have to stop and say “Wow!!!!!!”

I’ll never out play or out grow that machine!!!! Having said that I already feel like I’ve grown so much more creatively!!! Who knew dynamics could come so easily now and playing in 3 position and beyond produced a clean beautiful now your didn’t have to fight to get!!!!

It’s truly a remarkable instrument!!!! I really couldn’t be more pleased with the outcome!!!!! I’m so thankful for your help to get there!!!!

July 23, 2020

I was incredibly nervous about buying such an expensive instrument online but Rhiannon made it the best experience

Rhiannon was the first and last person I contacted when I decided to (nervously!) try mail order after looking locally for nearly 2 years for a considerable upgrade for the violin I have been playing for years and still not finding “The One”.

Her passion for stringed instruments and clients is evident within even the first communication. I clearly explained what I was hoping to find and with thoughtful communication and attention to detail on her end.....I ended up with a life long player.

I couldn’t be more pleased with that I may have not tried/found without her knowledge. Everything from communication right through to shipping was above and beyond.

I cannot say enough positive things about my experience....she earned a life long customer.

July 22, 2020