Testimonials

As a student, I was borrowing the University's Baroque violin and bow, which was of fairly basic quality. As I progressed, I wanted to purchase my own, looking for something of great quality. After giving up many days for travelling and trying out over 17 different Baroque violins, I came to the conclusion, with a second opinion from my teacher, that this wonderful 18th century Scottish violin was 'the one'.  I would like to thank Cardiff Violins, in particular Chris and Cécile, for such a friendly and helpful service. My parents and I received a very warm welcome and were given some expert advice on what to look for in an instrument and information on prices. I was given time and space to try out the violins they had on offer, and assistance was there when required.  What particularly impressed me was the after-sales customer service. Having just bought a very recently, beautifully made bow from the famous French maker, Monique Poullot, I encountered a slight problem with it, and Chris explained to me how to overcome it, and it has been absolutely fine since. Even after that, I received numerous phone calls ensuring that everything was in working order and to my satisfaction. Once again, I would like to thank Cardiff Violins for their excellent service, and that I am extremely content with my purchases!

I recently came across an Italian cello which needed considerable work undertaking to correct the neck angle and realise the playing potential of the instrument.  Chris and I spent considerable time going through the options of what would be possible and also cost effective. I must admit that I was nervous when Chris explained the work he recommended, but I was amazed at the level of craftsmanship that Chris and his team achieved, and in fact, you would never know that a repair had been done! I'm always impressed by the work that Chris and his team undertake and I have huge respect for the values that they work by - a real passion to do the right thing for the musician and also to ensure the instrument can perform to its full potential, which mine now does!

I had only ever played student cellos, and had been looking into an upgrade for some years, but lived in two countries without cellos and without weather for cellos. Fate, a long weekend, Luis and Clark, and Cardiff Violins came into my life, and I finally have a great instrument that will endure the weather and my progression.

Here are some brief notes on my experience: I was so impressed by two points, Chris and Cecile made me feel at home, and since I was so nervous, this was the best treatment I could expect; I had my own room, and even my own coffee mug. Second I was amazed at how they treated all clients the same, whether you were coming to buy a £6,000 Cello or a £5 piece of rosin, they treated everyone the same, and I thought this was really great.

The cello professional, Angharad, was in and out all day to help me with bows, cellos, and cases, she was always not far off when I needed her and let me be in peace when I didn't. Chris helped me with wolfnote devices and advice on bridge setting, and let me play several wooden cellos in my range and some way out of my league for comparison. For someone who had only ever played student cellos, this was amazing.

I was considering buying a cello from Cardiff without seeing it, if I did not get a few days away, as they said they will ship, especially in circumstances like mine, and after being there I would be happy buying an instrument from them prior to seeing it. However I am so glad I had the experience I had, and the knowledge I gained from the day at the shop, if you can get there, I highly recommend it.

Regarding the Luis and Clark - I am really impressed, it is perfect for someone in my situation, it sounds great, is weather durable, rugged, but still plays like a similarly priced wooden instrument, and I have to say, looks cool on stage for jazz and rock. I always thought it was retail jargon that if you buy a better instrument, your playing will improve to match it, but so far, I am finding at least my practice has improved immensely, I can now play without the limitations of my student cello, and I've managed to resurrect a few pieces I'd given up on as not being able to play well. The resonation is so much better, and it is much easier to get a good sound. I am extremely happy with the instrument I now have.

We were only at Cardiff for a couple of days, but we made some friends, I found a great instrument and learnt a great deal, and we definitely want to go back.

My first encounter with Cardiff Violins was not, in fact, for the purpose of purchasing a violin, but researching the instruments used in the BBC drama Sherlock, for the website Sherlockology. Having played the violin from a very early age myself, the subject was of particular interest to me and I was excited to learn more about the instruments chosen for the television series. Chris and Cécile were exceptionally helpful, giving detailed descriptions and accounts of the violins used onscreen and why they had hand picked them amongst countless others. It was fascinating to learn the history of the 19th century German violin chosen for the second series and its journey to Cardiff Violins, and then onto the Sherlock set to be played by actor Benedict Cumberbatch while portraying Sherlock Holmes in the episodes ‘A Scandal in Belgravia’ and ‘The Reichenbach Fall.’

Thanks to Cardiff Violins, today I find myself the current custodian of this very special violin. It is a magnificent instrument and from the very first moment I played it, I fell in love and understood why they had chosen this one in particular. Not only a beauty aesthetically, it possesses such a rich and mellifluous tone, that every violinist who has heard me play this violin, has immediately asked if they could play it themselves!

Living in the south-east of England there is a severe lack of experienced string instrument suppliers and restorers in the area and it was wonderful to finally find Cardiff Violins, with whom I had confidence that I could entrust my own violins and bows that had been passed down to me from generations in my family. They have since fully restored two such bows and I am absolutely thrilled with them both; they look spectacular and it is a joy to play with them. I have another violin that is in desperate need of being brought back to life, and would not dream of taking it to anyone else.

I am very pleased to have found such patient and dedicated individuals, who have both the passion and knowledge to ensure whether you are a novice or experienced musician, you can leave Cardiff Violins reassured you have found exactly the right instrument for you. And if you believe as I do, that finding ‘the right violin’ is like finding your life partner, then, in my opinion, there are no better matchmakers than Chris and Cécile.

I would like to thank you for the prompt & friendly service that I have received from you. I bought a violin bow from you on Wednesday 25th July, and it was delivered to my home in Spain on Friday 27th. I look forward to visiting Cardiff Violins when I am next in Cardiff.

It was three years ago that I first visited Cardiff Violins. I was overwhelmed by the choice of stringed instruments and accessories on offer. Already an accomplished violinist, I was looking for a new bow of excellent quality to complement my violin. I didn’t have to go any further as Cardiff Violins stock a wide selection of bows. I finally set my eyes on a Manuel Francisco bow of exceptional quality. After trying a number of bows at my own pace and taking Chris and Cécile’s excellent advice, I never looked back. I was also conscious about taking care of my violin as I travel considerably and Cardiff Violins also stock a significant selection of high end cases. I chose a HIMA violin case because it was robust and practical for air travel. Additionally, it has a special music slot inside the case which was just what I was looking for. I am a qualified musician having recently graduated from the University of Southampton and am a regular player with local orchestras in Guernsey. Since being back in the Island, I have performed as a soloist as well as string quartet events for various functions. Being a primary school teacher by profession, I also provide private tuition lessons in piano and violin.

We purchased a full size violin and bow for our daughter Katie. Laura was so kind and very patient with Katie, we did not feel pressured at all. Laura made Katie feel very comfortable. Laura and Cecile, thank you so much for your expertise and outstanding customer service. We would recommend Cardiff Violins to everyone.

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.