Posts tagged 'Customer Updates'

Featured Posts
  1.    
    You have to buy your violin here
  2.    
    Worry-free trial with a trusted expert
  3.    
    My Favourite Shop Ever: Fiddleheads Offers Client Attention I Hadn't Known to this Day
  4.    
    It’s as if Rhiannon has been doing this for 40 years
  5.    
    Invaluable in helping me choose the right instrument
  6.    
    You made me feel like a friend
  7.    
    Like coming home after a lifetime of being away when I hold my violin in my arms!
  8.    
    In a sea of options, I trust Rhiannon's expertise completely
  9.    
    Professional, friendly and honest advice given from violinist, teacher and friend's point of view
  10.    
    Check out Fiddleheads before all the other shops!
  11.    
    Narrowing down options for customers
  12.    
    Amazing passion for the violin and helping people
  13.    
    Our teacher is recommending your shop to others following my endorsement of Fiddleheads
  14.    
    Customers from all around the world love Rhiannon, we can see why
  15.    
    Whatever we order will come right from your hand!
  16.    
    Most patient and joyful seller
  17.    
    Best experience buying based on reviews, how online shopping should be
  18.    
    She's a woman who puts her heart and soul into everything
  19.    
    My son is so lucky to study with Rhiannon
  20.    
    Incredible gift of finding just the right instruments for my students
  21.    
    Packaging and cross-border shipping speed were impressive
  22.    
    Rhiannon made this process a delight for me
  23.    
    I was treated like a person and not an order number makes me a lifelong customer
  24.    
    An entrepreneur who sets a high bar for excellence
  25.    
    Rhiannon is a friend who's looking out for your interests
  26.    
    Pinchas Zukerman praises violin society as "Important in nurturing the next generation"
  27.    
    It's rare to get this much attention from online shopping
  28.    
    A musician and entrepreneur who stands out above the rest
  29.    
    Highly recommend Rhiannon if you would like to buy a violin online
  30.    
    A must buy from Fiddleheads
  31.    
    Fiddleheads is on the other side of the world yet helped far more than the local stores I visited
  32.    
    Best packing protection I've ever seen
  33.    
    Fiddleheads is a great example of what a personal business should be
  34.    
    I feel obliged to share my enthusiasm for your endeavours
  35.    
    Rhiannon is our sweet angel
  36.    
    The only place that supplies Bon Musica replacement parts
  37.    
    100% happy with my purchase
  38.    
    Finally, pain-free playing
  39.    
    Excellent product, excellent service
  40.    
    Feels better than any bow I've tried
  41.    
    Better than the Presto Impulse and CodaBow Diamond GX
  42.    
    I am very impressed
  43.    
    Step aside, Codabow
  44.    
    Better than any Coda bows
  45.    
    This bow makes a huge difference
  46.    
    By far the best shopping experience with the most knowledgeable shop owner possible
  47.    
    Our experience finding the right viola
  48.    
    Oh, Wow! Stunningly gorgeous violin with magnificent tone
  49.    
    All my violin-related needs are met even when I'm living in a place with limited selection of options
  50.    
    Trusted service from 3,000 miles away!
  51.    
    Rhiannon gave me the confidence to buy a violin online: Her top reputation is deserved
  52.    
    Fiddleheads is the number one violin shop in Western Canada
  53.    
    I trusted Rhiannon with this search for the best violin in my budget
  54.    
    With Fiddleheads, you are not simply purchasing a violin from a dealer
  55.    
    I would only buy a violin of this caliber from Rhiannon: It surpasses my greatest dreams
  56.    
    As kick-ass as promised -- my teacher and her husband are amazed
  57.    
    Teachers are amazed!
  58.    
    Rhiannon’s service helped me to make a major purchase of a premium violin online
  59.    
    I'll never make the philharmonic but thanks to Rhiannon, I'm having a ball!
  60.    
    The teacher said any of the three Bellissimas would be a good choice for our son
  61.    
    Excellent Youth Orchestra instrument -- Another shop says it's worth twice as much as we paid for it!
  62.    
    Rhiannon is knowledgeable, generous and honest
  63.    
    Tons of practical from the perspective of teacher, mom and musician
  64.    
    SPECTACULAR!
  65.    
    Rhiannon's a wealth of knowledge and took the time to understand my needs, budget & experience level
  66.    
    Rhiannon's knowledge and expertise were invaluable to us
  67.    
    Fiddleheads cares and is the best option for your investment
  68.    
    I'm advancing thanks to this violin
  69.    
    My search is over!
  70.    
    My violinist daughter approves of my choice
  71.    
    You won't be disappointed!
  72.    
    This violin is actually is accelerating my learning
  73.    
    Rhiannon took all the worry out of the purchase ... Violin was much better than expected
  74.    
    The tone got better and richer over the past year
  75.    
    Rhiannon alleviated ALL of the fears and apprehensions I have had in buying "site-unseen"
  76.    
    A great resource for me and my students
  77.    
    I'm another success story to add to your long list of testimonials
  78.    
    Happy VN-100 player from the Cayman Islands
  79.    
    Producing a good sound like this encourages the student to play more
  80.    
    Beautiful violins and extraordinarily wonderful service :)
  81.    
    The violin is a beauty! I was not disappointed by relying on Rhiannon. Give her a try!
  82.    
    Great value for the money, pleasing sound
  83.    
    Puts Jay Haide to shame
  84.    
    I have never had this sense of confidence in any instrument purchase before
  85.    
    I am blown away and 110% satisfied with everything
  86.    
    VN-909 from Fiddleheads
  87.    
    Beautiful projection, comfortable to play
  88.    
    Never would've expected this sound quality improvement, it was so impressive to begin with
  89.    
    I tried out countless violins in my search at other shops, then Rhianon made it simple and easy to decide
  90.    
    Buy your violin here: Rhiannon's personal manner and service are untouchable
  91.    
    The instrument is beautiful, the set-up is perfect, and the tone is amazing for a new instrument.
  92.    
    I am thoroughly enjoying my 909 violin from Fiddleheads: This Violin is enriching my life
  93.    
    I couldn't have found my dream violin without Rhiannon
  94.    
    My teacher and I agree your violin was the best one of all we tried
  95.    
    Looking for the perfect fiddle
  96.    
    Famous teacher was surprised by the quality
  97.    
    Best sounding violins I've ever had the pleasure to play
  98.    
    I am beyond grateful for Rhiannon's patience, kindness and professionalism!
  99.    
    Completely and totally overwhelmed: It sounds nothing short of magnificent
  100.    
    I was incredibly nervous about buying such an expensive instrument online but Rhiannon made it the best experience
  101.    
    The single best customer-experience I have ever had
  102.    
    My symphony musician wife and our concertmaster agree this is the right violin
  103.    
    I would have spent double for a violin like this at another shop
  104.    
    An incredible journey with the best possible guide
  105.    
    An excellent violin for a music lover and advancing student!
  106.    
    Much better than any violin I’ve tried in Toronto
  107.    
    A one of a kind violin dealer
  108.    
    Much more violin than I expected
  109.    
    Video comparison of two Moneff violins on trial
  110.    
    The reviews are all well-deserved
  111.    
    As featured in my recent album
  112.    
    I've found my forever violin at Fiddleheads

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

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

Supporting a small Canadian business is a great way to spend my stimulus cheque!

My violin arrived today. She's beautiful.

Thank you for everything, Rhiannon, and I promise to update you once I'm a bit better at playing!

I would like to thank you for offering left-handed violins. Playing the violin is a childhood dream of mine, however I have cerebral palsy in my left side. It is very mild but my fingers don't function very well on my left hand. It means a lot to me to be able to even have a chance at learning to play.

Also, I thought supporting a small Canadian business is a great way to spend my Covid stimulus cheque!

Thanks again and stay safe [during covid].

[UPDATE: 6 months later] I bought a violin from you back in May, and I just thought you might want to see my progress so far! It's been slow going because of my condition but I'm getting there.

Thanks again for offering left handed violins, it means a lot to me to be able to enjoy the violin despite my cerebral palsy.

May 28, 2020

I love the sound!

The violin has arrived. In excellent condition from what I can see. It’s beautiful! I waited a few hours for it to acclimatize before playing it.

[UPDATE: 2 days later] I love the violin. Sound is warm. Like how it sounds particularly E string. Playing lots today.

[UPDATE: 1 week later] Decided on to buy the violin after giving it another run through over the weekend.

It’s been a pleasure dealing with you on this purchase.

[REVIEW: Google and Facebook, 5 stars] It has been a pleasure dealing with Rhiannon. She made the trying/buying sight unseen online experience a positive one. The Zhu VN-909 Guarneri 4/4 violin I purchased is beautiful and rich sounding.

I tried a couple bows before deciding on one - the trials and shipping were made seamless by Rhiannon. Her attention to detail and customer service is excellent. I would not hesitate to recommend Rhiannon's business and the quality of merchandise that she carries.

January 20, 2020

We have a deal!

The fiddles were delivered today! Didn't expect them until Thursday but that's great.

It is amazing how quickly the sound of these new instruments on in-home instrument trial processtrial went from dull and dead to alive and vibrant!

The VN-102 is brighter and clearer sounding but the Bellissma seems to have more warmth and character.

The E string on the Bellissma seemed a bit thin but thanks to your tips I think rosin buildup was contributing to the thin sound.

[UPDATE] I’ve been playing the Bellissma a lot and had two "experts" check it out as well. I got an opinion from my fiddle teacher and another opinion from a classical violinist.

I also compared it with several instruments in the same price range at a local shop. I enjoyed getting to know these fiddles and am keeping the Bellissima.

November 27, 2019

Fast delivery across the line

I patiently awaited my new baby's arrival and was not worried about the delay for setup.

Rhiannon was very patient with me so how could I complain? Will it make my instrument arrive sooner! No, of course not. She was just doing some small tweaking to make sure I have an instrument that I will love! I can't be upset over that.

She was incredibly kind and patient with me. It is only fair that I extend her the same courtesy. This is how good business relationships are established.

Besides, I have run a business in the past and I understand that there is a lot going on behind the scenes and I also know that I am not Fiddleheads' only customer.

[UPDATE]
I had a nice surprise today. A knock on my door fifteen minutes ago. I was expecting my violin tomorrow but it moved through the system faster than planned.

I opened the door and here is a driver standing at my door with his electronic pad. I looked down and saw a long, rectangular box and I knew what it was. Thanks!

November 4, 2019

Rhiannon gave me the confidence to buy a violin online: Her top reputation is deserved

[REVIEW: Facebook, 5 stars] This is an amazing place to buy your violin. if you were reading this post, you may be in the same position as me a month ago. Looking to buy a violin and stumbled into fiddleheads while doing some research online. I start emailing them to get more information.

The owner Rhiannon is absolutely amazing!! I have never dealt with anyone with such great passion for her work and treat her customers like very good friends. She had taught me a lot and was guiding me and providing different options that totally fit my needs.

At this day and age, we are expected to be comfortable with shopping online. This started out as quite a nerve racking experience trying to buy such an expensive violin online. Our violin teacher was very against the idea. I was very sceptical doing such a purchase online. However, Rhiannon gave me confidence to believe in her and go for it.

I got a Angela Moneff and it is so stunningly beautiful. The sound is still new but I am seeing it opening up bit by bit every it was played. Thank you so much Rhiannon! Once you start contacting Rhiannon, you will know what I mean.

Rhiannon is a talented lady! Busy mom, successful business owner and professional violinist! She is a God sent Angel. Thanks to Rhiannon for being so creative for suggesting some ways to save money. The savings were significant. Her generosity brought tears to my eyes.

I wanted something that has more potential and can retain value. The violin will be my daughter's partner for her performances and exams in the next few years. The violin is beautiful. Soundwise, it still sounds very new. Looking forward to see it opening up as she plays more.

This was a major breakthrough for us to open up to buying violins online. It took quite some courage for me to make this move. Rhiannon was absolutely amazing all the way in my violin hunting journey! I had so many questions and she was always so patient to address all my concerns. I have learnt so much from her.

My daughter's music school has over 200 strings students. I have been sharing my experience dealing with Fiddleheads with other parents. They are all very interested in my purchase. I am sure I will have many referrals.

I can see she is a very genuine and sweet lady. Wish I can meet her in person and am imaginating having afternoon tea with her. :-)

The reputation and attitude of the store are the key and Rhiannon is doing a fantastic job!

[UPDATE: 6 months later] It is 6 months now and the Angela Moneff violin is breaking in and sounding good. The video does not do justice because this was performed in a school gym and I recorded it with my cellphone. It sounded fantastic in person! Its superb performance is very noticeable in such concert setting as the sound (even for a non musician like me) stood out compare to all the other violins being played.

I know there is limited information on Angela Moneff violin, hope this video will provide more confidence for those looking in to buying one. same position as me a month ago. Looking to buy a violin and stumbled into fiddleheads while doing some research online. I start emailing them to get more information.

The owner Rhiannon is absolutely amazing!! I have never dealt with anyone with such great passion for her work and treat her customers like very good friends. She had taught me a lot and was guiding me and providing different options that totally fit my needs.

I was very sceptical doing such a purchase online. But Rhiannon had provided me full confidence to go for it. I got a Angela Moneff and it is so stunningly beautiful. The sound is still new but I am seeing it opening up bit by bit every it was played.

Thank you so much Rhiannon! Once you start contacting Rhiannon, you will know what I mean.

June 9, 2019

On behalf of my friend who also loves her Bon Musica

An elderly woman, who plays violin at the church services that I attend, was quite interested in the shoulder rest that I purchased from you (an am continuing to enjoy).

I will be in Kamloops for our performance of the B Minor Mass, and would be quite happy to take delivery of a shoulder rest on her behalf.

[UPDATE] I'm writing this on behalf of my friend. I spoke with Alma at church and she is quite pleased with her new shoulder rest. Thanks for making it so easy for her to obtain one.

I continue to enjoy mine. When anyone asks me about my shoulder rest, I am pleased to refer them to you.

May 4, 2019

You won't be disappointed!

Me, Age 37. Left Handed. I can't see myself using a right handed model, I am left hand dominant..everything.

A few shops I've talked to on phone say nobody makes left handed ones and I have to play right. Well that's not true! I’m so glad I reached out to Rhiannon. I received her 103L violin yesterday, wow, it is very nice!

I am so glad I went with the left handed model, it just feels natural.

[UPDATE REVIEW 6 months later: Google, 5 stars] Great place to buy a violin you won't be disappointed!

I purchased my left handed vn-103 over 6 months ago. I waited to review until I had a chance to play it and get a feel for it. Wow it is a very fine instrument! I couldn't be happier with it.

I spent some time on the phone with Rhiannon discussing left vs right and I am glad I did. I tried some traditional violins but just did not enjoy playing it as it felt very uncomfortable.

The left handed violin just feels right and is a joy to play!

January 16, 2019

Absolutely beautiful

Tonight at dinner my patient and caring wife sat with me and watched one of Mitio Dimitrov's videos (where he carves a violin scroll). She did her very best to seem interested and impressed and I very much appreciated her effort!

She was very impressed with the care and patience demonstrated in Mitio's work and she does think the violin I have purchased looks absolutely beautiful. I asked her to remember the visual beauty of the violin when she hears me trying to bow the strings on my Dimitrov violin!!

[UPDATE: 13 months later]
I wanted to send you this little update, and a huge thank you! Approximately 13 months ago I purchased from you the 2016 Mityo Dimitrov. When I wrote you, I explained that I was recently retired and I was pursuing my life long dream of learning to play the violin.

I was so very confused by all of the advice/guidance out there about what to buy for an instrument. I had been a regular reader of your website for a couple of years, and my instincts told me I could trust you for advice and guidance.

During our exchanges of communication, I shared with you that learning the violin is something I would be doing the rest of my days and I was looking to purchase my lifetime violin from you. I was not interested in having to change up instruments as my abilities progressed.

With your advice and guidance, I purchased from you the 2016 Mityo Dimitrov. When she arrived at my home December of 2018, I was blown away at what a beautiful instrument it was.

I started lessons in January of 2019, and I have been faithfully continuing with those lessons each week since then. Earlier this year my teacher connected me with a couple of other adult beginners she is teaching and we have started a little string ensemble. We get together once a week for an hour and we are learning to play together.

What an amazing experience this has been for me. This past Christmas our little ensemble played a couple of shows at three different senior homes (they are a very forgiving audience!) which was so enjoyable. We just played at a small recital yesterday and later this spring we are playing together in a small music festival.

Before I started taking lessons, I had no intention of doing exams. I am having so much fun, I have changed my mind and this coming June, I will be doing my grade 2 RCM exam.

I just wanted to share this little story with you, because I am so appreciative for the help you provided me. I have been playing my Mityo Dimitrov for one year now and I love it more than the day I first set my eyes on it!

It is am absolutely beautiful work of art and I will cherish it forever. I love the sound it produces and it is truly my forever instrument.

Every time I hear of someone who is looking for a violin I always refer them to your website and I share with them my wonderful experience with you.

October 29, 2018

I plan to buy everything my violin needs from this shop

[UPDATE REVIEW: Google, 5 stars] Two years ago I ordered a student kit from this shop. The violin's sound was great, as was everything else that came in the student kit. (Kit: Violin, rosin, a bow, strings and a case.)

She also included a little surprise in my order. :-D

I am currently ordering some new strings, and I plan to buy everything my violin needs form this shop. Not only is it run by a violinist (so everything is good quality) but also the customer service is wonderful! Totally great!

My mum also plans to shop from here. Thank you!

October 28, 2018

Spite purchase

Because I am mad at my husband, I am ready to get my bow.

[UPDATE: 2 weeks later] I love the bow! My violin does too!

October 23, 2018

Such a beautiful instrument!

Wow! Thanks for sending the Valentina to the kids for me. I'm sure to get lots of videos of the boys playing it now... I will check out your online videos, too. It's always fun seeing an artist in action! And when it comes time for separate Violins for the boys, I will definitely recommend you! :)

You are probably playing to your Orchestral delight as I write! I hope it's your best concert ever!

[UPDATE: 1 week later] The Valentina arrived to the Graham household in wonderful condition on Saturday. It is such a beautiful instrument! I haven't heard it yet, but I know it will sound beautiful because you played it and vouched for its wonderful tone.

Thanks so much for sending it directly to the kids! They are SOoooo excited, they can hardly contain themselves! You have helped me give them such an amazing gift. :) :) :)

May 12, 2018

Honest and dependable

I owe you an apology! I hope you will accept it. I accused you of being dishonest, and you proved me wrong, and I am truly sorry! I received the shoulder rest, and I will give you a positive review. I will contact paypal and inform them the matter is resolved and the whole misunderstanding was my fault. Thank you, and have a good day.

[UPDATE] I'm really happy that you are so forgiving! I will definitely call upon your services again! I've been ripped off in past times, and since, I can be mistrusting of businesses online. I will give you a five star review! You provide five star service!

Have a great day,and I look forward to doing business with you again!

May 1, 2018

This violin is actually is accelerating my learning

Favorite Violin Lady Rhiannon, what do they say up in your neck of the woods when something really terrific and exciting happens? Around here we say something like "The Eagle has landed" or maybe just "YEE-HAW!" However, I'm not well-versed in Canadian idioms, so I'm just going with a simple "RHIANNON RULES!!!!"

You done good.

The much-anticipated new instrument arrived and was quickly being played.

Right out of the box its beautiful wood glowed and, after a tune, the violin had a rich and mellow tone. It's outstanding.

Now don't hate me but I totally disregarded your advice to let it get broken in a bit before I took it to my tough-minded teacher. That was your fault since the instrument you sent is too terrific to hide away. I had a lesson scheduled last night, so I took it with me, and [..... pause, building suspense,.....] she thought it was excellent.

My teacher raved over the quality of the sound, was very impressed with its wood and thought it was ideal for me.
We wound up using it for the rest of the night. It's already given me more confidence and huge enjoyment. My teacher was disappointed in me, however, for not taking a video of playing the first note.

I've had a really great week with my new violin, and my teacher continues to be very impressed with it (less so my playing) and said tonight that I would have to pay hugely more to get a better instrument. So it's a keeper and the payment for the balance I owe you will be on it's merry way on the wires as soon as I get done here.

At first I thought it might be a higher level of instrument than I could use well. I am finding, though, that its quality actually is accelerating my learning and making every session with it a true joy.

My teacher said that she will be in touch with you about sending something in for your website and seeing if she could arrange a link to you on hers, where she features several outstanding violin sellers. She wasn't familiar with you and asked for more information, which I'll give, so you may well be destined to become the Queen of Left-Handed Violins (and more, I hope).

Also, I think you are too modest. Your reputation, integrity and service are Rock-of-Gibraltar solid with me. I expect to nominate you for the Queen of Music (Humor and Customer Service Category) at next year's BC (maybe even all-Canada) Ms. Music Festival.

All funning aside, Rhiannon, I feel quite fortunate that you have lefties. I already feel that both my learning and playing is improving substantially in light of the tremendous sound quality. So thank you, and I truly look forward to finding something else that I need to buy so that I can pester you further.

Very best wishes to you. If ever you get to Chicago, let me know, as I would love to meet. I'll do the same if I find Kamloops in my future.

[UPDATE: 4 months later]
My VN-103 from Fiddleheads is proving to be a phenomenally beautiful appearing and sounding instrument. Rhiannon at Fiddleheads helped me immensely in selecting this instrument to fit where I stand in my learning journey. To note a few observations:

1. The 103 weighs in at exactly 16 ounces, 2 ounces less than my prior violin.

2. The color is beautiful throughout, with intriguing slight variations on both the front and the back as part of the understated antiqued look.

3. Overall, the color is a rich, mid-range mahogany.

4. The front shows a grain running parallel to the finger board, with a few areas of slightly lighter shades, leaving the impression of some aging. There is a darker outline of the violin front where the front meets the sides, which also contributes to the aging effect. The color differences on the back are a bit more pronounced, as the back is comprised of two separate pieces of wood. Overall, the back is something of a number of subtle, light and dark, horizontal stripes that line up seamlessly in the middle. The sides have a pretty-much uniform pattern of alternating and minutely varying stripes that continue up into the scroll.

5. The ebony chin rest has a subtle pearling of brown stripes in the black. This matches the wood used on the front, neck and back and draws attention when seen up close.

6. The sound is impeccable. It is both rich and deep and comes readily from every bow stroke. In contrast to my prior instrument, there is no metallic “sliding” sound that often comes from the slightly imperfect bow stroke of a learning student. In that and other ways the 103 could be said to be “forgiving.” My teacher, who has very discerning hearing, also praised the sound and was definitely impressed that I made the investment in my violin future.. After several weeks of using the violin I don't have a single critique of its sound quality. In fact, the sound has continued to improve throughout my use, and I look forward to reviewing again in a while as I continue to learn about the instrument's great performance.

7. As this is a substantially more advanced instrument than many learner violins, I am finding that the superior sound quality actually accelerates learning, primarily I think because the violin does not produce the harsh notes that can be so disruptive to a learner's playing on a lesser violin and because the superior sound is highly rewarding and therefore encourages more practice.

8. The production workmanship appears superb, and the pre-shipment preparation of the violin before shipment to make it ready to play immediately on arrival was meticulous. The packing for the shipment from Fiddleheads was extremely well-cushioned and protective.

9. This violin is more expensive than many that an intermediate player or a student might see. In my view, though, this is a classic case of long-term value vs. immediate cost. After several weeks of experience with the violin, I am totally convinced that the value (mainly from the substantial improvements in my playing and enjoyment that the violin is leading me to) has already exceeded the cost and will continue to do so.

April 19, 2018