Zhu

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

Comparing Half a Dozen 909 violins!

[REVIEW: Google, 5 stars] Rhiannon was very helpful online in answering my questions about the MJZ 909 violin.

She offered to send me up to two violins to try at home, but when I learned she had six in her shop, I made arrangements to drive to Kamloops from the US and try them in person.

Rhiannon was very gracious in welcoming me into her home/shop, and she helped me narrow down which violin was right for me - which was not an easy task since all of the violins were lovely.

I highly recommend her to anyone looking for a new violin.

May 9, 2023

Your specialty in Zhu violins and wood seasoning/curing stands out

I am a professional musician from Michigan. I've had a career in roots music for the last 12 years.

I came upon your website while doing research for a new main instrument, and your specialty in Zhu violins stuck out to me, so I looked forward to reaching out to learn more about the violins that you have on offer, and consider doing a trial of some instruments at home.

The other factor that was attractive was that your shop is located in a place that deals with winter, and dryness, and I thought that bodes well for instruments that will be suited to resilience in the changing seasons where I live, despite careful work with in-case humidifiers.

The one violin that I have played [most of the time] is a Ming Jiang Zhu instrument (VN903). Non-temperamental, reliable throughout the seasonal changes.

It became my secondary instrument, one that I now use for very low tunings, when I acquired a 100 year old instrument made in Michigan that had a particularly moving sound and distinctive look, but the Zhu violin has always remained in the fold, and these days it is the one I want to pick up more.

January 31, 2023

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

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

I LOVE IT,  I LOVE IT,  I LOVE IT (and it arrived in tune!)

I LOVE IT, I LOVE IT, I LOVE IT

My baby violin just arrived and it is awesome!

It's beautiful and its sounds twice loud as my Carlo Lamberti Sonata. Just imagine what I was dealing with up to now. And I haven't even used the new [Astute] bow yet.

Played a little bit, the instrument is still in tune and sounds awesome. I am sure I will have lots of fun with it.

I'm extremely happy with it and in search of a nice name for it! I am bringing a piece of precious wood into my home which was alive someday. So I will cherish it and respect it the way it deserves.

Thanks so much. it was a very good buying experience.

[UPDATE: 1 month later] Tonight I was practicing for tomorrow's class and I held my violin and smelled it (love the smell of wood and varnish) and as I was tuning, I remembered I need to write a review for it.

For some background, I had been on a challenging search for a violin and while looking into a specific brand, I stumbled upon her website.

I am in my early 50s and an adult learner. I live in Windsor, Ontario which lacks good sources for instruments, but I do have access to Detroit's market as I pass the border every day and work in the US.

I had a Carlo Lamberti violin from "Shar" which my teacher and I both agreed that I had outgrown, and was in desperate search of a better quality instrument. Prices here are out of control and the more I researched, the more fear developed in me that I may end up paying way more than the actual price as I am nowhere close to recognizing true value.

In a phone conversation with Shar, I felt a bit strange with the salesperson. So I found Psarianos in Troy, Michigan. I visited and they were kind to show me what they had - in my price range - and also let me take two violins home. As I played more, I realized they are not what I am looking for. Both Chinese copies: a Master Art 2009 and a no-name replica Guarneri Del Gesu 1742 made in 2021. The used violin sounded like a tin can on E and A, and the new violin but had orange peeling on both top and bottom (bubbles on the varnish) which scared me.

My household had already suffered through my early learning stages given my state of learning as an adult. I desperately needed to upgrade from my intermediate factory violin to an advanced violin in order to improve my intonation in higher positions.

I narrowed down my choices and after reading many reviews, I knew that going with a MJZ would be a safe bet and even more affordable than those other violins that didn't live up to my expectations.

I am sure there are better choices out there but considering price for quality, you will realize choices can be narrowed down to just a few. I did not want to pay for names or heritage. I needed sound, projection and quality, but a good reputable name was the icing on the cake.

I bought my Ming Jiang 909 from Fiddleheads about 4 weeks ago. The decision was made after extensive research across all of North American possibilities online and physical shops in cities in Canada and the USA.

Fiddleheads' proprietor Rhiannon made me feel like a special friend with her recommendations, and after adding up the numbers and speaking with her and seeing photos she took just for me, it was a no brainer. I pulled the trigger and can't be any happier.

The 909 I received from Fiddleheads was set up and commissioned by the owner Rhiannon and shipped to me in mint condition. Opening the parcel saw me surprised with extra goodies.

I am already seeing the difference in my sound quality and technique thanks to this violin.

MJZ has a proven record for using quality materials and also categorizes their instruments by material used and craftsmanship. There are many variations out they're claiming to be a MJZ violin but then they cannot provide a certificate.

Be aware that in a best scenario, what you are getting without a certificate is a modified version, with a changed label for that retailer and you will never know what you actually paid for. And I won't even talk about the worst scenarios.

Shopping at Fiddleheads means you know what you are paying for and you know you're getting an authentic instrument.

I recommend you check out MJZ violins. But as you do that, consider my testimonial for Fiddleheads being the best place to buy one. I promise you will thank me afterwards for the recommendation of the violin and best place to buy it.

 

July 15, 2022

It sounds wonderful

My VN-909 arrived last night! Everything looks beautiful!!

I played a little last night. Sounds wonderful. Look forward to playing and getting to know her more.

Hopefully my little guy gets inspired when he hears me play. It was my mom (she played a little piano and guitar) that got me into music. She always wanted to play the violin herself, so that's how I got into it. I'd love it if [my son] eventually takes an interest, without pressure.

Thanks again for all the advice and the little gifts.

May 3, 2022

This purchase brought us great joy

[REVIEW: Google, 5 stars] I received the [VN-909] violin and accessories recently and gave them to my wife for our 5th anniversary. She was thrilled!

I had been consulting with her teacher, Richard Tweney (www.violinlessonsnorthumberland.ca) about what to purchase and he had mentioned you.

Thank you for the joy you brought and special extras that were included.

February 28, 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

As featured in my recent album

[UPDATE: 10 months after purchase] I'm releasing a jazz violin album this week and wanted to let you know that your violin played a huge role in it.

I couldn't be happier with this instrument. It is silky and sweet over the entire range and especially on the E string where my former instrument was harsh and brittle.

It was such a pleasure to record this album with this new instrument and I can't thank you enough for steering me in the right direction.

If you want to check out the album go to this link. [Or listen at Youtube Music]

I hope things continue to go well with your business. It was so great to work with you after all these years.

[NOTE: Don MacDonald was Rhiannon's violin teacher in music college from 1996-1997]

[Read Don's Review of a VN-907 violin he tested for a friend, which led to this purchase]

January 6, 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

Our teacher says this is a professional level violin

My son's violin teacher sold her daughter's student violin to us after we've received the violins from your shop last week. Teacher said that a new VN 909 is not for a student player and is more advanced.

Thank you for your kind help and assistance. I'm very sorry that we decided not to buy a new violin at this moment. Next time we need a new violin we will definitely come to you to buy one.

November 12, 2021

An excellent violin for a music lover and advancing student!

I just received this violin a few days ago, and I love it already! It was packaged securely and arrived in great condition. Of course it will require some break-in time, but it's perfect for my advancing practice and performance and keeps me playing.

I played a Sun 100 violin before, it is very nice too and we got it from Fiddleheads, but as I advanced I felt I needed a more responsive instrument.

This Zhu 909 has amazing projection and the sound is rich and full; I'm sure the sound will become even better as the instrument matures. The projection is amazing, thank you so much for the wonderful instrument and the music it produces!

Rhiannon replied to all of my questions and kept me informed, and I appreciate it very much. Hope this inspires someone! Thank you!

[REVIEW: Google, 5 stars] I love my Zhu 909 violin!

Its sound and projection are great, and I feel I can connect with my instrument so well. When I play it it vibrates against my chest and it feels like singing!

The only thing is that the violin sings for me. It has an amazing voice.

When I turn music on, the body and the strings of the violin vibrate and it feels like it has a heart of its own. It allows for a wide range of emotion and expression -- perfect for and advancing violinist!

Rhiannon, thank you for the wonderful "customer service", I would call it the Friendliest Advice for the young musician!

I really recommend this shop to anyone who loves music and cares for our planet -- Fiddleheads is also Eco Friendly. It's friendly to everyone :) Thank you a hundred times for your kindness and love of violin, music and people!

September 2, 2021

Night and day from my violin I have had my whole professional career for the last 40-plus years

I played the violins for my friend's daughter and was amazed with the 907.

This violin gives such returns back to the player. It was night and day from my violin I have had my whole professional career for the last 40-plus years.

We did a blind comparison and didn't even know which model was which but we could tell the difference between them and the top one was obvious.

I'm sold. I want a 909 now.

[UPDATE: 4 weeks later] I absolutely love one of the [909 violins]. I'm getting one of them for sure.

[Upon hearing his mother paid for the violin as a surprise] My mom - bless her - incredible! She's clever, that one. I had no idea!

Amazing! Big thanks to you for making this all happen!

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

March 13, 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