Well what can I say about the wonderful establishment that is Cardiff Violins? I have been going to Cardiff Violins since the age of 7 and now at the age of 31 it is by far my location of choice for all my viola requirements. Just about every instrument I have owned has been purchased from Cecile and Chris and I couldn’t ask for more in terms of quality of service and most importantly the service and care given afterwards. Most recently I have purchased a wonderful English silver mounted viola bow (pictured) which I could not be happier with. Whenever my students are looking to purchase a new instrument I have always taken them to visit Cardiff Violins and Cecile, Chris and all their assistants always make myself and my students feel most welcome. The one thing I can say is that you never feel like an inconvenience when visiting. Cecile and Chris, for all the help and support you have provided me with my instruments over the years and continue to provide, Thank you!
Having taken my viola into Cardiff Violins for advice as to what I should do in order to get the best out of my viola, it was recommended that I should opt to have a professional bridge fitted in order for the viola to produce the best sound possible. I knew myself that the bridge I initially had was below standard however I was a little sceptical at first as to how much difference a bridge would actually make to the sound quality. I was assured by Chris that if the new bridge did not improve the sound quality then he would put my old bridge back on and I would not be charged. I decided to take the plunge and having returned to test the results I was absolutely amazed! The tonal qualities that my viola now produces is nothing short of perfect to what I was looking for, Chris spent at least half an hour with myself making sure it was exactly to how I wanted it to sound, a lovely caramel sound however still retaining the clarity and brightness that I have always preferred on my Violas. In my opinion, the cost of having the bridge fitted along with the consultation to make sure it is to my liking is well worth it!