Loyal & Repeat Customer

I found the perfect bow

Over the years I've played on a number of different bows, some from Asia, and also some from Europe; but I've always been seeking to find "that perfect bow".

I have to say I think I've found it!

The Voxy Astute Bow is the perfect bow of both worlds, with that carbon fibre core and pernambuco wood cross over. The pernambuco on-lay gives you that traditional look and function that many players desire to have.

The first thing I noticed when picking up this bow, in my hands, was how light it is.

With the carbon fibre core being light weight and flexible I find the bow does not hold you back from different techniques you maybe trying to integrate into your bowling style. It sails smoothly through all styles of playing, various pace, pitch, and phenomenal handling.

I give the bow 5 stars!

The sound production I get out of my violin [read my review] is phenomenal with this bow! My low strings resonate with warmth and my high strings have a beautiful harmony with the Violin's natural resonance while using this bow.

I've had some bows in the past hinder my violin's sound and not allow me to get from piano all the way to forte. This bow does not hold you back...

I feel like a soloist, prima donna, diva when I have this bow in my right hand.

May 29, 2023

Masterful violin beyond my dreams

I played all day since the package arrived around 10:30 AM. I did my lesson with my online instructor and blew him away.

I played for another three hours. I can't believe the difference between it and my old Klaus Heffler... I knew there would be a difference, but I had no idea just how much. We're talking apples and oranges here.

The G-string on my Heffler sounds terrible, and I have tried two different strings (Peter Infeld, Dominant Pro), and there is just no "ring" to the G.

Today the first thing I did with my new Kowalski is play a D on the G string, and the "ring" was definitely there, a clear sign of sympathetic vibrations.

On my Heffler, the G string just sounded dull and "gravelly." The Kowalski sounds better when I play my Arcus T7 carbon fiber bow.

You did it again, Rhiannon - score another one for the Violin Cupid!

We certainly appreciate all you have done for us! We both consider you a friend and not just our instrument dealer.

December 15, 2022

Yet to find a violin like this anywhere else

[REVIEW: Google, 5 stars] When my violin got stolen, Rhiannon was quick in helping me with insurance and providing original receipts and cost for a replacement.

One more thing, I travel the world a fair bit and I have not come across a violin yet in my price range, with such a quality fit and finish like the one [Bellissima] I originally purchased from Rhiannon.

To conclude, I will definitely purchase my replacement from Rhiannon.

December 11, 2022

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

Outstanding resolution; we will be back

Thanks for everything [and for honouring miscalculated shipping at checkout]!

E-commerce can be a pain in the rear quarters, especially when some of the components don't work as they should (I work in IT and have enough troubles with servers and networked computers without dealing with imbedded html).

Carmen and I appreciate your taking care of the issue... and we will be doing business with you again!

[UPDATE: Soon after Carmen purchased her second 7/8 size violin and Michael his first Kowalski violin from Fiddleheads.]

August 28, 2022

The best cradle for my baby

I bought a beautiful Deluxe case, which is a must to protect your baby.

(Wouldn't you buy the best cradle and beds for your other babies?)

I have already received compliments on its looks.

I'm so glad I went with the blue. Nice contrast with the violin!

July 29, 2022

Admirable business

I congratulate you on the many awards you have received for business excellence, and especially appreciate the environmental one.

I'm a strong believer in respecting nature, and I try my best to help, even if it is as small as just caring about things I use in everyday life.

July 29, 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

A master in her craft and her thoughtfulness, kindness and honesty makes Rhiannon stand apart from other violin shops

My town, Windsor Ontario, does not have a reputable seller or luthier that I could find. I had access to other cities nearby and I visited at least 4 luthiers and tried at least 20 instruments and took home 4 for trials. The sound quality of [other shops'] violins did not match sticker prices at all. It was frustrating and I worried I would have to spend a lot more money than was reasonable.

So understandably I convinced myself to try online sellers and started getting quotes and tried to consider the risks involved with each one. I quickly realized how retailers were using (manipulative) selling tactics to lure customers in.

Then I found Fiddleheads and all my worries disappeared.

I now believe I made the best decision in the process going with Fiddleheads and Rhiannon Nachbaur.

In my humble opinion, customer service, trust, and loyalty are what makes a business successful. Do yourself a favor and before you pull the trigger, try Rhiannon and you will be surprised.

Rhiannon is knowledgeable and a master in her craft and what makes her so successful, is her thoughtfulness, kindness and honesty which is hard to find these days. No wonder she has been able to maintain a reputable and successful business recognized by many institutions and professionals.

With Fiddleheads and Rhiannon there are no games and tricks and once you add up the numbers, you will be surprised to see you will also save tons of money, while enjoying the peace of mind that you will be getting a certified instrument, and will be supported along the way until you are satisfied with your purchase.

Rhiannon played my instrument for me, sent numerous high-quality pictures from all angles and so I knew exactly what I was getting. She was responsive and prompt in responding to my questions and concerns, even after my purchase and that's something!

There are no middlemen or whole sellers involved, as she deals straight with the makers and also introduces them in detail in the website.

I am so glad I reached out to Rhiannon and Fiddleheads. People are getting smarter. It doesn't matter what marketing these others have to make sales, people will figure out they are being cheated.

Rhiannon, however, is very transparent and clear with her information. She gives us what we want. There are no gimmicks and no selling tactics. She doesn't charge too much for violins or shipping.

Thank you, Rhiannon, for all your support and for helping me make the right choice. I am very happy with my purchase and I am glad I know you and that I can count on your support.

I recommend all players try Fiddleheads before all other shops. You will be dealt like someone special, and very soon you will feel you have known Rhiannon for many years!

July 6, 2022

I've found my forever violin at Fiddleheads

The violin has arrived and it is gorgeous! (That had to be the longest 10 days in my life!!)

Already feel a difference as it is light as a feather. It has a voice. I'll report back after a while as I practice more on it. (I don't play, I practice!)

[REVIEW, Facebook] I did my research on upgrading my violin and all things pointed to Fiddleheads.

I knew the one I wanted, and after a quick conversation with Rhiannon on how to purchase the violin (she gave me a hint on how to save a little more money), the violin was on it's way!

When it arrived (what felt like an eternity - thanks Canada Post), it was well packed and safe and sound.

When it's time to upgrade my bow I know the website I'm going to visit.

[UPDATE 1] The violin (Scarlatta) is absolutely gorgeous. It has to be seen live to be appreciated! The ribs and back are beautifully flamed and although it says 'antiqued' on the webpage, it is absolutely minimal and there's no distressing of the varnish either.

The strings have been played in, and the G is deep, the D is full and the A and E ring. My teacher uses Eva Pirazzi Gold (E string), I just might put a set on.

I've found my forever violin.

[UPDATE 2] Added some photos (I'm not the world's greatest phototaker with one hand or even 2 hands, but I tried!)

Thanks Rhiannon, it was an absolute pleasure!

March 23, 2022

Thanks so much Rhiannon for making my violin experience a reality. I look forward to my next violin purchase experience

Well, Thanks so much to fiddleheads opportunity for great product line of violins and supplies.

I am a lefthanded player that recently purchased a lefty violin model Sun VN-103L intermediate violin custom lefthanded version. Wow. What a great instrument.

I am a guitar builder and player of the lefthanded side, so I build mostly lefthanded acoustic flamenco style nylon string instruments.

Am so impressed with the intonation and sound quality of this new violin. I am new to the violin world, but I do know a good sound when I hear it. Basically, being a beginner in this new journey of mine has shown me how much respect I do have to those who play this amazing instrument.

Rhiannon has taken this opportunity to a whole different level by offering so many great choices to lefty's or righthanded violinists. Amazing what she has singlehandedly done. I am so blessed and happy to be part of this new world of hers.

Back to the violin. I have carefully examined the playability and sound quality of each string and found that the low G string is a nice perfectly balanced to the rest of the open notes on this violin.

I can see that a lot off effort has gone into the setup to offer the best results as a beginner, I feel there is some forgiveness for my abilities in this setup and this model can make you shine.

I am so glad I went with a high-quality instrument at the beginning. I am very serious about being able to play well and I can now see that this can be accomplished.

Thanks to the Fiddleheads team I will be in a very capably place to succeed at playing left-handed violin. I must admit without Rhiannon's website and beautiful shopping experience, I would have never been able to complete this journey of playing a true left handed violin.

I totally recommend Fiddleheads to anyone interested in the true violin experience. It has been a true pleasure to deal with them. Thanks again!!!!!

March 11, 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

Delightful violin

The Moneff arrived yesterday late. I have only had the smallest chance to play it. But my first impression was extremely positive.

I'm really happy with the violin.

I like it much more even than I thought I would. It sounded great! I'm really delighted. I"ll say more after I have more of a chance to play it.

[UPDATE: 2 days later] I am really delighted with the Moneff violin.

I don't know what I expected, but I expected it to be good and the violin greatly exceeds my expectations.

December 9, 2021

Christmas gift for our family

I placed an order for a fiddle for my daughter (21 years old)... we are looking forward to Christmas morning as it is a gift.

Thanks for your help last winter, I am really enjoying learning to play & lessons are often the highlight of my week :)

Violin wise, I am working the the 1st Suzuki book, as well as French folk song, rosin the bow, a bunch in the learn to fiddle book, edelweiss & now a few Christmas tunes... so much to learn yet, but I am happy with my progress :)

So excited to gift my daughter this instrument! I have twin girls - the other is getting a guitar. Need to keep doing joyful things in these strange [Covid] times.

All the best, your new website is lovely.

November 25, 2021