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.