I almost hate to tank their thin yelp profile with this review because they've done so many outstanding things, but all the present shortcomings need to be addressed. A few years ago this was an outstanding operation: a family business offering services far beyond what other online instrument retailers were offering, but I've had a string of bad experiences with them recently. Firstly, three issues with two shipments in two weeks: 1) The first shipment was delayed three days and I wasn't notified until the day it shipped that some of the items had been out of stock. Fine. Not fine, but fine. 2) The second order was delayed for ten days (at least. It's currently Day 10 and it still hasn't shipped). I didn't hear anything from them until I asked them on day eight why the order status was still "pending", just thinking they didn't update the tracking information. They tell me they've been moving to another warehouse and all orders for the week had been postponed. Why wasn't I and assumedly anyone else notified of this from the beginning? I wouldn't have minded at all. But they need to be forthcoming about predictable service failures like this one or stocking issues so their customers aren't left hanging and with the onus of badgering them for details or a time frame. Just have a banner during checkout: "Hey, Fiddlershop is currently reorganizing to better suit customer demand in the future. We apologize but orders made in the next week are going to be a little late while we complete the transition. Thanks for sticking with us." This would have been a five-star review had I been told that from the beginning. If something is back ordered, it shouldn't be a surprise when it gets sent out the day I'm expecting it on my doorstep. 3) In this same order I bought a violin, thinking it was the one from one of their videos claiming you can add that exact instrument to your cart. Because even instruments of the same model sound different, and I loved that they appreciated this and was astonished Pierre had taken the time to make all those videos for their entire inventory. And I had found one I really liked; definitely different from the mean of the group. Don't know if it was the setup, microphones, the day's humidity, or the tree they cut it from, but it was a sweet sound. So I emailed them (this is day 1) just making sure the link in the video had placed that specific violin in my cart, and they told me they don't offer the service anymore and that fiddle had already been sold. It's understandable they stopped doing this once demand and volume reached a certain point, but take the videos down so no one's disappointed. Granted, they'll still choose an instrument based on the customer's preferences and even make a side-by-side comparison of different instruments if requested, which is certainly admirable and definitely more than you get from Musiciansfriend or Guitar Center, but this isn't stated anywhere on the site. What really irritates me though, is they knew over the days I was talking to them about this selection issue that my order was going to be late and they didn't say a thing. So for all their countenance of being customer-oriented and putting in extra effort to make sure the customers are included in the process and taken care of, I've felt excluded and blindsided at every turn. Even in the emails I've sensed a lack of accountability and genuine acknowledgement that they've made mistakes. In three emails, I've gotten four separate "apologies" for inconvenience, confusion, frustration, and delays; but these were all phrased like explanations. Like no one on that end is actually thinking "Wow, we screwed up or should change how we do this so it doesn't happen again." More like: "Apologies for any sort of delay that our not shipping your items may have caused, but it's because we haven't been shipping items this week. You understand." And I give them ample credit for partnering with GCV to make their own violins and making them available for a great price for the quality of sound they offer, but it feels like the owners weren't prepared for the boon of having a monopoly over arguably the finest products in their price range. I might be wrong, but it seems like the infrastructure just isn't there yet, and they're not doing enough to compensate for this. Despite still offering some excellent services, they're falling short on the basic precepts of the buyer-seller arrangement and misleading simply through negligence about what services they do offer. I may have just caught them during a clumsy gear shift, and I hope they recover because I do have a soft spot for them (I got my first violin here and learned my first lessons from Pierre's free videos, and their branded products really are remarkable for what they cost), but at this moment I wouldn't buy from them again, at least for some time. Sorry Fiddlerfamily, I wish you all the best. read more

This place is fantastic! What a great experience! I am a beginning cellist and wanted to purchase my very own first cello. The manager escorted me right back into the shop and introduced me to one of the workers who took me up stairs to try out various cellos. He was very knowledgeable and gave me much information to help me make my purchase and even offered me several options other than buying such as renting and home trial. I have a beautiful classical guitar that I bought back in 1986 in Pennsylvania and I still have it and enjoy playing it, so I decided to invest in my cello knowing I will keep it for years also. I chose my Fiddlerman cello and bow and case and also purchased a stand. I paid about $1100 for all. They set it up for me all ready to play so,when I got home that's what I did for hours. The manager even threw in a T-shirt with their name on it. After doing my reaserch, this cello is beautifully crafted with the woods I wanted. The sound is deep, and rich and the bow is light and high quality! I'm thoroughly happy so far, and plan to use Fiddlerman for my servicing needs and for any other future assistance I might have. The atmosphere there with all of the office workers and the workshop staff was so friendly and enjoyable, that I kind of wanted to work there. I love music, and being around fine instruments was enjoyable. 5 Stars! (I live in Boca now, so the shop was very convenient. ) read more

I have been a professional musician since 1968. I have been in many music stores all over the world. I was buying violin accessories from Fiddlershop on line and taking on line lessons from Fiddlerman.com. As luck would have it Fiddlershop opened its non-virtual shop in Pompano, Florida, which is awesome, because it's near my home. This Shop/ Showroom/ Warehouse is operated and owned by the Holstein family. Fiddlershop, In my opinion, have been one of the greatest Group of people to work with. I've had a repair on 100 plus year old vioLin owned by my father by luthier Felix. The work was superb. I've had adjustments and and head changes done on my Barcus Berry electric that have improved the instruments playability immensely. Because of this company's eye for detail And style of doing business, I have purchased two 5 string violins from Fiddlershop, one electric and one acoustic. Both of these were fantastic decisions because of the quality of the workmanship. I highly recommend this company for any of your stringed instrument needs. They are wonderful. 5 STARS ........... John Tomasko Sent from my iPad read more

What a fantastic crew with a wealth of knowledge! I have probably asked Michael and Asa 50+ questions over the course of two weeks concerning picking out a new violin. Each response from them was highly timely, clearly directional, and insightful. Ultimately, Michael helped me pick out a violin best suited for my needs and budget, and was honest and upfront about my previous choice (which would have been way more expensive than his recommendation - due to my wanting to purchase one violin and then change all the fittings). This team reflects stellar customer service, patience, loads of talent and depths of wisdom. I am an avid online shopper and with fiddlershop I received once-in-a-life-time experience in working with these guys. I want to thank you guys for taking the time (2 weeks back and forth with me!) and providing me with honest, and helpful insights to what I am looking for. I am very confident in my purchase, and highly recommend you guys to anyone who is in the stringed instrument market! read more

Certified Happy Customer. Over five years I have ordered many sets of strings, shoulder rest, violin case, violin holder for my music stand, and I have two violins from the Fiddleshop ( A soloist, and a MJZ 900). I am always impressed by the quick and friendly service. My violins came so beautifully and professionally shipped. But mostly they were set up properly sound lovely. I am now selecting a nice bow, which I wouldn't normally do online, but I know they stand behind their products and because their customer service is Outstanding. They will ensure I am happy with my purchase. Pierre is a world class violinist and he can help with any question and he goes above and beyond with helping customers as well as non customers all over the world. They always answer their phone as well as reply to the online messages. SUPER DUPER Wonderful Shop! read more

I have had a great experience with fiddlershop. They ship fast. I ordered a Fiddlerman Artist violin and it arrived in the Bahamas in perfect condition. I'm very pleased. They even sent free extra violin gadgets. They are a friendly bunch. I think every company has some unsatisfied customers but fiddlershop probably has some of the best customer service. They were helpful and friendly in answering my emails. It seems they really go out of their way to help you if you have a problem. My philosophy is this: (A)Be a friendly customer and be appreciative of fiddlershop's services. If you're a dedicated customer they will go above and beyond to help you. (B) Be a unhappy customer that has no intention of buying again and customer service will want to say goodbye as soon as possible. In other words, dedicated customers deserve more than undedicated customers. read more

I have dealt with Fiddlershop several times now for my online violin shopping needs. I've purchased two violins and several other items and have only had the best of service from them. I know violin shopping online can seem scary, but they make the process as painless as possible, helping through the whole shopping process with videos of the violins and helpful suggestions. They are never pushy because they want you to be happy with your final decision. The violins came perfectly set up, and even after shipping barely needed any tuning to start playing them. They've impressed me with their customer service and care, and so I continually return to them to buy my accessories and if/when I decide to add another violin to my collection I will again return to Fiddlershop! read more

Fantastic luthiers and good prices. I started playing the viola at age 59. Before a diagnosis of breast cancer. Fiddleshop is where I bought a nice 14 inch viola because my hands are relatively small. Taking viola lessons were the best therapy. Making music at all ages is possible!!! I'm improving weekly, on all fronts. Truly, I had some bad weeks, and dragged myself to my viola lesson and got my mind focused on it. It was like a real miracle because I felt so much better for the rest of the day. I can't explain it. It's the truth. I didn't like the strings on the new viola, and FiddleShop made it right. You can trust them to care. I didn't tell them I had breast cancer and so I didn't get special treatment. I highly recommend them. read more

I called them three times and discussed violins and options. Twice I spoke with Michael and once to Fiddlerman himself. Everytime they were great. No sales pitch, just help. I got the Concert Violin. There was an e-male from them the next day informing me it had been shipped with a tracking number. It arrived, as said, ready to play. I had done a lot of shopping and tried a number of violins. I feel this was the best value for the money spent. Quality construction, good tone, and easy to play. Bridge is done well, sound post seems in the right place, and pegs are an excellent fit. I am a happy customer. read more

These guys are a killer team. They have it all; Fiddlerman is not only a hero to the violin community. He is trying out all the violins and giving you the best violin for the best price! He even records videos so you can hear the different sounds to find the one suitable for you. His son, co founder of Fiddlershop is specialist in the business part of it. Professional and kind at heart. Together they have found the best people for each and every position. They all care about each and every customer. I've been there plenty of times and they all are like a big family. Must try! read more

I was in need of a bow upgrade, so I went in to try out one that I had my eye on. They let me try it out, and they let me try one of their nice violins that are hanging on the wall. I had always wanted to try one, but I never had the courage to ask. I was in heaven between the new bow, which I did purchase, and the violin that was a pleasure to play. They made me feel so at ease, and playing on that violin is an experience that I will remember for a long time. Everyone at Fiddlershop is so nice, and they never try to rush you. Thanks Fiddlershop!!!! read more

I recently visited Fiddlershop and was so impressed with their selection of instruments and accessories! They have a great selection of violins, violas, cellos, as well as guitars for sale that are both high quality and reasonably priced. They even have ukuleles! The staff was friendly and knowledgeable, and they offered great advice and assistance in picking out the right instrument. Highly recommend Fiddlershop for anyone looking for a great selection of quality instruments! read more

My husband and I have purchased numerous items from Fiddlershop, including a violin, bows, strings and accessories. Their products are of excellent quality, they go the extra mile to ensure that instruments are set up correctly and their overall customer service is outstanding. The owners are friendly and helpful, so don't hesitate to call them if you have questions, concerns or need advice. I'd recommend Fiddlershop to beginners and professionals alike. read more

Although I live in the UK, I've dealt with FiddlerShop over the last 3 years. My purchases have ranged from the relatively trivial such as SP setter, rosin etc, through bows, strings - and up to an intermediate-level violin. Mike at FiddlerShop helped me out, and talked through the various options for a beginner/intermediate instrument - and the violin was even "demoed" for me with a short video on YouTube by FiddlerMan. Exceptional service ! read more

I bought a violin bow and some accessories from Fiddler Shop. I have been impressed with the quality of the items, as well as the fast shipping. However, most of all, I have been impressed with the level of communication - buying from Fiddler Shop is like dealing with a trusted friend. I highly recommend them. read more

The customer support and service is outstanding from competitors in the​ industry! On top of that​, they offer the best Instruments your money can buy! If you are in South Florida, it's definitely​ worth a detour to check out the store in Fort Lauderdale and try out some instruments! read more

I webt in there hoping for a cecilio violin and they kindly said they didnt but instead showed me their amazing, good for its price violins and better yet, they had amazing customer service! I got out of that store with a fiddlerman OB1 and I'm so ecstatic to start playing! read more

What an amazing shop. I certainly would trust my violin to the luthiers at Fiddlershop. They gave me outstanding advice on how to care for my instrument. read more

Great folks, great products, always help full, curtious and professional. I highly recommend them! Mark Cooper read more