Far more meaningful than plastic toys or tech fads, the gift of a violin creates a lifetime-long love

A mom and dad standing by a Christmas tree are holding and kissing their preschooler child while he smiles and holds his new violin

"Merry Christmas! [My daughter] recognized the shape immediately and was a little sneaky about it... it was definitely a big hit! Santa and I both appreciate it very much!" - Mike A. - Moncton, NB

One of my favourite aspects of being a violinist and violin shop owner is receiving emails from elated customers on or just after Christmas Day.

Parents share photos of their awestruck child enthusiastically scratching away at their new violin. Romantic partners send thank you notes for helping their sweetie pick the right instrument for them. Grandparents and aunts and uncles celebrate how they gave the kid who has everything the best possible present.

It touches my heart to know my life's work in Fiddleheads is making so many people happy, and to witness the start of so many lifelong musical journeys through new eyes. I can relate to each and every person who receives their first violin because I remember what it meant to me to start playing. No kidding, I am just as excited knowing the violin is going to a new player as the new player is upon receiving it!

"I have already received the violin….the hard part now is waiting to give it to my husband at Christmas!" - Nikki R. - Kamloops, BC

On a slightly more somber note, it is especially encouraging to me to know that the wares I am selling are not just a passing merchandise fad or a disposable item that will end up in a bursting, toxic landfill before long. Don't get me wrong, I am not a grump about Christmas at all; I love the decorations, the traditions, the foods, and the generosity of the holiday season. It all brings light to the cold, dark days and creates connection when people seem to need it most.

But I admit, like millions of other people, I am tiring of the commercialism and excess that has become pushed on us each year. Buying "stuff" to fill a gift void isn't sustainable financially, environmentally, or emotionally.

Does the battery-operated toy retain the interest of a child, or are they more likely to play with the box in which it came? Do we really NEED to live on the bleeding edge of technology with the latest version of every tech gadget that is released? Is the gift card to yet another box store going to result in a new hobby that brings lifelong happiness? The answer to all these questions is likely a disappointed but realistic "no." 

"We got the violin! He won't get it until Christmas morning...but I know that he will LOOOOOVE it. It is beautiful!!" - Krista C. - Revelstoke, BC

Holiday gift giving doesn't have to be put up on blocks for the generosity of the season to mean something. My own family makes a point of giving meaningful gifts comprised of items that will last a long time and those that don't have a nasty impact on our environment.

Most gifts we give within our immediate family are items that stimulate our interests and passions, and many times we see new interests and passions emerge.

"I [put a bow] on with my Secret Santa list, and for Christmas I received a wonderful Voxy Vogue bow, which has already astonished me with its beautiful sound, as well as the ease of playing it provides." - Katie R. - Seattle, WA

For instance, university student daughter received beading supplies for crafting gothic jewelry, my astronomy-loving husband was treated to a sharper telescope, and my pianist son was gifted his grandma's guitar to expand his musical journey into high school. And for myself I treat myself to new violin strings (I'm a sucker for Evah Pirazzi Gold strings) and a bow rehair each Christmas, with perfect timing as Christmas marks the halfway point in the symphony season.

These are things we all can use on a daily basis and that fascilitate learning and growth.

"Sarah was OVER THE MOON with the violin and "played" it almost non-stop yesterday. I also woke up to it this morning. LOL!" - Kristi C. - Salmon Arm, BC

Music brings light into our lives. It challenges our mind and reflexes and it teaches us to work with others. Kids who play music consistently perform better in school. Adults who take up an instrument see improvement to concentration and memory skills. Plus, playing music is fun and a great icebreaker in meeting new people.

Do consider buying a violin for the kid who has more toys on the floor than visible floor space, or the adult relative who already has every gadget you could possibly think of. For the recipient who already plays violin, perhaps they need a bow or instrument upgrade. Or maybe you always wanted to play and want to give yourself a new hobby and challenge.

"Very excited to get [the violin] in the hands of our little 4 year old for the holidays. He has been asking for a violin for the past year." - Joël L - Dartmouth, NS

Of all the things in this world, I sincerely think the best possible thing to give someone is a musical instrument, no matter the age of the recipient. I have seen literally hundreds, if not thousands of customers purchase instruments and related supplies for loved ones and themselves at Christmas and have seen, first hand, what a difference these things have made in all these lives.

Wishing you Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and all the best for the New Year.

Read my article on Instrument Purchasing for Newbies here - See Violins and Outfits for Sale here - See Stocking Stuffers Here

 

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Rhiannon Nachbaur, Fiddleheads' Owner