Welcome to Frank's Fiddles

Thank you for visiting Frank's web site and for your interest in handcrafted instruments.  Frank's Fiddles has been in business for twelve wonderful years thanks to all who have chosen to purchase and play one of Frank's instruments.

This small business, located in Meridian, Idaho, sells 4-string and 5-string violins / fiddles and violas handcrafted by the owner, Frank Daniels.  Frank also does repair work, and sells used instruments and violin accessories.  If you would like more information about Frank's handcrafted instruments or if you are interested in visiting his shop, you are welcome to email him (click here).

As of January 2009, Frank has completed 175 instruments.  This number includes 132 violins / fiddles; 29 five-string fiddles; 7 left-handed fiddles; and 7 violas (15-1/2 - 16-5/8).  Frank's handcrafted instruments are recognized for their excellent tone, evenness, good projection, ease of playability, and their beautifully figured wood.

Award Winning Fiddles
At the Violin Makers Association of Arizona, Intl. (VMAAI) annual competition, Frank has won numerous tone awards for his instruments.  At the 1997, 1999, 2005 and 2006 competitions Frank's 11th, 34th, 113th and 120th steel-string fiddles placed first in tone.  In 1998 his 23rd violin placed 2nd in tone in the gut-string category.  In 1999 and 2000 his large violas placed first in tone and in 2005 his 7th viola placed 3rd in tone and in workmanship.

In 1999, Frank had the prestigious honor of his 34th instrument, a steel-string violin, being awarded the Bob Wallace Memorial Grand Championship Award.  This instrument was judged best in tone (by playing and listening judges) out of over 80 gut-string and steel-string violins.

Rewards of the Business
Frank and his wife, Karen, feel very fortunate to be able to travel and share Frank's instruments with many beginning as well as professional musicians, but getting to share with young children is always a highlight.  At the Violin Maker's Convention, held in Tucson, Arizona each October, they have an open house on Wednesday evenings.  This year, there was a little girl outside crying because no one would let her try their expensive instruments.  A friend brought the little girl to Frank's table and he had the pleasure of letting her play one of his instruments.

"As a maker, my goal is to craft great sounding instruments that will be played and enjoyed by many throughout the years to come."

Cherryholmes with two of their Frank's Fiddles at a festival in Arizona, Oct. 2006.

See more performers and owners in the Photo Gallery or listen to some audio samples of Frank's Fiddles on the Audio page.

Frank Daniels in his workshop.  More construction photos available in the Photo Gallery.

The trophies Frank has won since 1997