LIVE MANDOLIN · TEXAS HILL COUNTRY, AUSTIN & BEYOND
The sound that makes the moment.
Solo mandolin, duo, and trio packages for weddings and private events — played from the heart, shaped to your day.
Inquire About Your Date →
Meet the Musician
BJ Lazarus didn't plan on the mandolin.
He started on guitar, but the mandolin had other plans. After years of playing and gigging, he realized that every sound he heard in his head had that unmistakable ring: bright, warm, and immediate. He picked it up and never looked back.
A true improviser at heart, BJ rarely knows exactly what he'll play before he plays it. What he does know is the room, the moment, and the song — and he shapes his playing around all three. Whether he's filling the silence before a bride walks down the aisle or setting the mood at a sun-drenched Hill Country cocktail hour, he believes in serving the music and the moment above all else.
Originally from Baltimore, BJ made it to Texas in 2013, was drawn in by the landscape, the culture, and a music scene that felt like home and never left. These days he lives in the Hill Country with his wife and their young son, playing the music he loves for the people celebrating the biggest moments of their lives.
31
Years playing
1000s
Gigs played by feel
100%
In the moment
Services & Packages
From one instrument to a full acoustic ensemble.
Every event is different. That's why Big Day Mandolin offers flexible packages — from an intimate solo performance to a trio that fills the room. No pricing online; every quote is built around your day.
Solo Mandolin
BJ performing solo on mandolin. Ideal for ceremonies, quiet cocktail hours, or intimate gatherings where one instrument says everything.
- —Ceremony music
- —Cocktail hour available as add-on
Duo
BJ on mandolin paired with one additional musician — richer texture and harmony for larger ceremonies or fuller cocktail hours. Pair with:
Trio
Three musicians, fully acoustic. Mix and match from the instrument list to build the ensemble that fits your vision.
- —Perfect for ceremonies, cocktail hours, or both
- —Fully customizable instrumentation
Add-On · Cocktail Hour
Any package can be extended to cover cocktail hour — just ask about availability when you inquire.
See & Hear
Hear it for yourself.
A handcrafted mandolin, a little golden hour, and the music it makes. Press play.
Kind Words
The moment, remembered.
BJ set the perfect tone for our entire ceremony. From the moment guests arrived to the last note before we walked out as husband and wife, every song felt chosen just for us. We still talk about it.
Fredericksburg, TX
We hired BJ for our cocktail hour and honestly it was the best decision we made for our reception. He read the room perfectly and kept the energy exactly right. Relaxed, joyful, and so beautiful.
Dripping Springs, TX
I've been to a lot of weddings. I've never heard a musician quite like BJ. He doesn't just play the songs, he feels them. Our guests couldn't stop asking who he was.
Austin, TX
FAQ
Got questions? Here are the ones we hear most.
Still wondering about something? The fastest way to a real answer is to reach out — BJ replies personally.
Ask BJ directly →Logistics
How far do you travel from the Austin / Hill Country area?
BJ serves the greater Austin area and Texas Hill Country. Travel to surrounding areas may be available — just ask when you inquire.
Do you perform outdoors?
Absolutely. Most Hill Country weddings are outdoors and that's where the mandolin really shines. We'll discuss weather contingencies when we connect.
Do you provide your own sound equipment / PA system?
Yes. All I need from the venue is an electrical outlet.
How much space do you need to set up?
Minimal space is required.
Booking
How far in advance should we book?
Popular dates fill quickly, especially spring and fall in the Hill Country. Reaching out 6–12 months in advance is ideal, but don't hesitate if your date is sooner.
What does the inquiry and booking process look like?
Fill out the inquiry form and we can start a conversation to figure out how to make your day exactly what you want.
Do you require a deposit?
Once all details are agreed upon, typically a small deposit is required to hold the date.
What is your cancellation policy?
Cancellations more than 1 week from the event date get a full deposit refund. Nobody wants to be left at the altar!
Music & Performance
Do you take song requests?
Yes — requests are welcomed. If you know how many songs and the genre but aren't sure exactly which songs you'll want, a quote can still be provided. Final song decisions should be agreed upon no less than 2 weeks before the event.
Can you learn a specific song for our ceremony?
Yes — specific songs and arrangements can be learned, and should be agreed upon with enough advance notice.
What genres or styles do you play?
BJ's repertoire spans acoustic folk, Americana, bluegrass, classical, and popular songs arranged for mandolin. If you can hum it, chances are he can play it.
How long do you typically perform?
Performance length can vary depending on your needs. We can make the best plan for your event.
Can we hear samples of your playing before booking?
Yes — watch the performance video on this site, and feel free to reach out for more.
Packages
What's included in the solo, duo, and trio packages?
Each package includes BJ on mandolin, plus additional musicians for the duo and trio options. Contact us to discuss timing, set length, and customization.
Who are the other musicians in the duo / trio?
BJ works with a trusted network of local musicians. Instrument options include guitar, violin/fiddle, cello, banjo, vocals, and bass.
Can we mix and match instruments?
Yes — duo and trio packages are flexible. Tell us what you're envisioning.
Do you perform for both the ceremony and cocktail hour?
Yes — any package can include cocktail hour coverage as an add-on.
Let's Talk
Let's talk about your date.
Whether you're just exploring options or ready to book, reach out and BJ will get back to you personally.