My name is Osian Dafydd and I am 18 years of age. I am currently studying the violin at the Royal College of Music in London. I hope to pursue a professional career in music and preferably the violin as a primary instrument. I am also hoping to study voice at the Royal College of Music. Currently, I am a very proud owner of a great instrument made by a man called Henry Banks, along with his father Benjamin Banks, who were both very gifted violin makers that lived during the 1700s and 1800s. It was this violin that was introduced to me by Chris and Cecile last year at Cardiff Violins that made me realise I wanted to pursue a career in music and, therefore, I am extremely grateful to Chris and Cecile for introducing me to this violin.
When I arrived at the shop to purchase a new violin I instantly realised the warm atmosphere created by the building and also the welcoming staff who were very considerate and kind. It was also apparent that Chris and Cecile had a great interest in me and in my happiness of finding the right instrument. I had the opportunity of trying many violins, each one being unique in its sound and characteristics. It was a very long procedure to choose a violin, but Cecile and Chris showed endless patience and true care.
It is very apparent to me that Chris and Cecile greatly enjoy their business, they are also very open to helping you adjust your violin to your preferred sound. Chris being an excellent craftsman does excellent jobs of repairing your violin if necessary and it is also possible to place complete faith in his dexterity. I recently had my violin completely re-glued, involving hours of Chris’s time, when I went to pick up the instrument and offered Chris a sum of money he quickly rejected it. I believe that this demonstrates his love for instruments.
To conclude, I have received many wonderful experiences from Cardiff Violins and would happily advise everyone who wants to buy a new instrument whether it is a violin, viola, or a cello or whether you wish to service your instrument to go to Cardiff Violins and truly have a great experience.