Comfort

Worthy upgrade from Everest rest

After using the Everest 4/4 for a good 7 months, I decided to make the switch to the Bon Musica shoulder rest. And, boy, am I pleased with my decision!

It's a noteworthy upgrade, especially for someone like me who has a relatively long neck in proportion to my height. The adjustability feature on the Bon Musica is a game changer.

What I particularly appreciate is the ability to mold the rest to my body's contours. Instead of feeling a localized point of pressure on my shoulder, I can now bend the surface of the rest so that it distributes the weight over a larger area. This not only adds to comfort but also ensures I can practice for extended periods without feeling discomfort.

Lastly, a notable shout-out to the adjustable chest area feature. For female players, this adjustability brings a whole new level of comfort. It's a subtle touch, but it makes a significant difference.

A light-hearted limitation: Please don't be like me, spending an entire hour adjusting the Bon Musica shoulder rest only to practice for a mere 5 minutes. Sometimes, achieving 80% of the perfect adjustment is more than sufficient. Enjoy the music and the experience!

In summary, if you're contemplating an upgrade or simply seeking more comfort and adaptability, the Bon Musica shoulder rest comes highly recommended. It's not just about the violin; it's about the whole experience, and this shoulder rest undoubtedly enhances it.

[Benefits: Payment Options, Proudly Canadian, Woman-Run Business]

September 7, 2023

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

Really nice build quality

Everything [arrived] safe and sound. Nice build quality. Really happy overall.

Thank you for the upgrades/extras, they are appreciated. I really like everything I received.

The violin is for myself, and it's my first violin. I'm a hobbyist sort of going down a composer path, and I play a bit of piano, but I decided learning some violin would be fun.

I was able to start playing a bit and I'm really happy with the sound quality, especially considering I just started!

Sounds fantastic with the Evah Pirazzi strings. I think the [upgraded] Evah Pirazzi's were definitely a good idea.

PROS: Exceeds Expectations, Fast Shipping, Rhiannon's Expertise, Beats the Competition, Beauty & Aesthetics, Comfort, Playability/Ease of Use, Quality Craftsmanship, Recommended, Tone & Tonal Improvement, Value/Good Price, Packaging & Safe Arrivals

March 21, 2023

This is really helping me unlearn bad habits

I've never played with a shoulder rest before, and I've always had problems with bad habits and getting tired quickly, this is helping a lot.

Like so many people say about this, it feels really secure, the way it hooks over your shoulder.

I think I still need to try some further adjustments to the curve and maybe the height to get it perfect, but that's a thing about it. It's very adjustable.

The way I have it at the moment, it doesn't quite fit perfectly into the case without bending it a little more, and other people have said it does for them, so I'm wondering if I'm doing something "wrong" or maybe it's just my shape.

November 17, 2022

Tremendous comfort and improvement to stability

I've tried out the BonMusica a bit and so far, it's made tremendous comfort and stability improvements on 2 different electric violins.

I might have to get another. :-)

Thanks. Rhiannon is wonderful!

August 10, 2022

Much better than any violin I’ve tried in Toronto

One of the best places to buy a violin in Canada

The violins arrived perfectly, and they look even better in person than I expected. I have been playing the three violins for a few days now.

909: Easy to play. It does have a slight metallic / sonorous sound. I am guessing this is owing to the break-in period.

Moneff: Clear, and sweet tone. Wonderful violin.

Stankov: Clear, and vibrant, specially on the E-string. Excellent violin.

I find the Moneff and Stankov quite similar. They are both very clear, and deep. Much better than any violin I’ve tried in Toronto. I think I am going to focus on these two, and show them to my teacher this Monday before deciding. I noticed that the E string on Stankov projects more than the E string on Moneff.

[Update: 1 week later] Good news! I have decided to keep the Stankov. It’s such an amazing instrument.

[Official Product Review]

I tried over 20 violins in Toronto, and couldn't really find one that spoke to me.

Getting violins on trial from a website was a strange concept, but I gave it a shot. I tried three violins sent by Rhiannon, and they absolutely blew away what I had tried locally in Toronto until then.

I always like to know about the source of materials used in the things I purchase, and, at least in Toronto, it was common to come across violins that use unethically obtained animal parts like mother of pearl. It was a relief to learn that Rhiannon runs an eco-conscious store, and doesn't sell violins that use animal parts.

In the end I decided to go with a violin made by Ivan Stankov. It's a beautiful violin, with a very deep and rich sound.

Rhiannon has been very helpful with her advice, and keeping me on top of everything. I can highly recommend Fiddleheads, and the violins they sell.

I really hope you win the [environmental] award. About time they start giving awards to socially conscious businesses. I have had a great experience with Fiddleheads.

September 1, 2021

Playing better now

Got the bow. Think I play a bit better. Like the feel. [It's] a step up from the $49 bow that I initially bought.

I played classical violin when I was in junior high and then started again at 64... I have not been consistent in my playing, and am now making my 3rd or 4th attempt at consistent playing.

December 22, 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

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

Way better than my old rest

My teacher recommended the Bon Musica rest.

Still love that thing [a year later]; it’s WAY better than my original one.

July 27, 2020

I don't have to stop playing violin now

I'm 40ish and I've had a really bad bruise/rash on my chin from playing violin since I was a small kid.

My dermatologist said my horrible lumpy and burning lesion was probably permanent since I have had it over 30 years and the scarring is so deep and rough and never healed properly all this time.

I tried everything. I covered my chin rest with cloths and foam. I used different rests like supposed "hypoallergenic" plastic ones ... total BS, my dermatologist said, most hypoallergenic things are just bunk.

I tried a chin rest filled with gel that made holding the violin still with my jaw really difficult and caused me to clench more from my shoulder so I wouldn't drop my violin. I also tried various creams and medications my dermatologist suggested. I even tried playing without a chin rest. All to no avail.

The dermatologist said the only way to make it go away was to stop practicing long enough to let it heal. I wasn't ready to quit playing but the mark was making me feel really self-conscious.

I mentioned my problem to Rhiannon, who said she uses the Strad Pad and it made a huge difference to her skin and comfort. I took her advice and gave it a shot as I was at the end of my rope.

Well, the Strad Pad was the only thing that worked.

I've used it for only 13 months and the painful, sometimes even oozing or bleeding, marks under my jawbone have nearly disappeared! My skin is smooth and soft just like the rest of my neck and jaw now.

I also find that the Strad Pad cuts down on sweating considerably, which is great living for hot and humid La Jolla. This thing obviously keeps bacteria and moisture down. Though the pad is washable I admit I have not yet washed it, and still I'm not breaking out so I think washing it will make the healing happen that much faster for people.

It's also a lot more comfortable than anything else I tried. I used to have a bruised feeling in my jawbone when I played a long time in a sitting and that doesn't happen anymore.

It may seem like it's expensive, but getting it on sale at Fiddleheads takes the sting off and it's cheaper than any other treatments I have tried so far. Like Rhiannon said it still looks like new and I use it almost every single day.

Also it's American-made and from a company that's been around for a long time. A couple friends who play tried cheaper pads from China but the quality of the materials was really questionable and the pads only added padding and their marks didn't go away like mine did. If you are putting something against your skin, especially YOUR FACE, don't mess around with something you don't know what it's made from!!

I can't wait until I see the specialist after all the Covid hubub is over and see the look on his face when he sees I've healed up without medications or quitting the violin like he suggested.

You have to get one of these right now, before you have problems. Don't wait like I did!!

May 7, 2020

This frees my left hand grip to stop my violin from sliding

I really like this shoulder rest a lot :)

I put on the shoulder rest and was thrilled to find it felt so secure!!

My violin is always sliding down/off my shoulder and I think this will help a lot :) and relieve the gripping in my left hand.

I'mm new to violin (just 8 months since starting) and I'm looking forward to practicing later today!

I wanted to learn from the very beginning and not miss anything. I'm 44 but totally ok with the kiddie songs. I love to practice but improvements are slow. But I figure I'll just chip away at it and one day in maybe 10 years or so I'll be more confident. I really enjoy having something creative/musical to work on, since my 9-5 career is all left brain activity!

Thanks so much for the duet music, Rhiannon! I appreciate your encouraging words :)

May 4, 2020

Quite pleased

I purchased the Bon Musica shoulder rest from you and have been very pleased with it.
April 3, 2020

My saviour for my achy shoulders

I purchased a case, and lately I realized a bit too late that a backpack strap makes things easier.

The [V-shaped, padded] strap has fixed so much for me and the quality of the treks to my lessons! This strap is my saviour for my achy shoulders.

Thank you so much for your speedy delivery, Miss Rhiannon.

January 5, 2020