White, unfinished violins Maker Bio: Xuechang Sun

Master maker Xuechang Sun has worked as a celebrated and accomplished luthier since the 1960s in Beijing.

His personal instrument building has earned him many accolades, including a Gold medal for craftsmanship and a Silver medal for tone in cello making at the National Violin Making Competition in China (1987) and a certificate of merit for bass workmanship at the 15th International Violin Society of America (VSA) Competition and Exhibition (2002).

Demand for his instruments on a larger scale than he was able to produce as well as instruments in the student range resulted in him starting a workshop of top apprentice and up and coming makers.

Though basic Sun workshop instruments are sold by other shops via various distribution companies, Fiddleheads' Owner Rhiannon Nachbaur has worked closely with the workshop head directly for decades to produce and further develop exclusive improved editions of these instruments. This means the models Fiddleheads sells are of a higher quality and more precise setup than is available elsewhere. Keep this in mind when comparison shopping.

From the naturally seasoned and beautifully flamed tone woods to her chosen custom varnishes, warm and clear tone and delicate finishing work, it's all been finely honed between Rhiannon and this hidden gem of a world-class workshop.

Beyond the enhanced construction to Rhiannon's demanding and heightened professional standards, she has each instrument lovingly setup by her luthier in Canada before she personally tests them for tone and playability before they are sent to their new owners.

Fun fact: Most Fiddleheads Violin Studio students studying with Rhiannon since 2002 had their musical start on a Sun workshop violin or viola! These instruments have been there for hundreds of our students and customers so Rhiannon have a special place in her heart for them.

See Sun Workshop Instruments Here