*readers' top pick*

  1. The Dark Side of the Violin Trade: Crooked Luthiers, Greedy Salesmen & Other Creepy Creatures Exposed

    Violinist playing in the back of a store in the shadows

    Watch out for fake labels, convincing replicas and other sleazy practices. Originally Published July 21, 2006; Updated April 2021.

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  2. Can You Spot the Fiddle From the Violins?

    violin in dramatic lighting with text

    Test your violin and fiddle knowledge here!

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  3. Neck and Shoulder Problems? Give it a Rest!

    Man in front of Xray cringing from sore neck

    Fiddleheads' Owner explains the necessity in using three devices recommended to supporting our violin hold (Chin Rest, Padding, Shoulder Rest) for better support and to minimize discomfort or even pain as you play.

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  4. Q&A: What Can I Learn About My Violin's Label and Authenticity?

    Violin label reads Götz

    Ask Rhiannon Series: Sources for investigation into our violin's origins, and be safe so you're not deceived into paying too much

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  5. Q&A: What is my violin worth based on the label?

    Label of a violin barely visible through the f-hole reads,

    Ask Rhiannon Series: Learn where to look to learn about sale price history on a variety of violins

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  6. Psychological Analysis of Violin Student Personality Traits 101

    drawing of a cross-section of the human head with sections of the brain identifiedA mentally gifted and exceptionally verbose violin teacher unravels the mysteries surrounding the complex inner workings of the violin student's mind

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  7. Viola Players Have the Last Laugh

    Aerial view of viola section in a symphony

    The usual assault of viola jokes don't discourage us from filling in the harmonies and living a quiet life in the orchestra pit

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  8. Busk or Bust

    Young Rhiannon and a child student busking outdoors in 2003

    A "street-wise" musician and teacher explains the world of busking and offers advice on making good tips as a busker. This article was cited during a CBC Radio Documentary about busking, in which Rhiannon was interviewed. She was later interviewed by Galo Magazine on the topic of women buskers.

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  9. Strad or Dud? Is My Violin a REAL Stradivarius?

    Woman looking inside f-hole of violin at label and screaming at it

    Discovering “The Red Violin” of Stradivariuses is pretty much impossible. Shucks.

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  10. In Conversation with Pinchas Zukerman

    Aerial view of a symphony from afar

    The Violinist/Violist and Conductor of Canada's National Arts Centre Orchestra shares his passions & inspirations

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