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Baethoven the Violinist
- Los Angeles, CA
- Violinist
- Travels up to 30 miles
- $300 and up
Overview
I’m Melissa Folzenlogen, aka Baethoven, a Black and Japanese NY born and raised multi-instrumentalist and singer. I like making music for all people! Every genre, every style, every audience - I’ve played on streets and train cars, I’ve played at SXSW, Lincoln Center and NPR’s Tiny Desk. I’ve done weddings, graduations, parties, festivals, lessons, recordings, surprise marriage proposals (one of my favorite things to do!) you name it, I’ve happily done it. From Led Zeppelin to Lizzo, The Beatles to Billie Eilish, or from Stevie Wonder to Silk Sonic, no matter where or what style of music - I'm happy to play for you!
Min fee of $300. Price increase after July 1st. Secure rate, book now!
16 Reviews

Melissa (Baethoven) and her band played at my wedding earlier this month. Melissa was amazing to work with! She was attentive, communicative, and very flexible! My husband is a HUGE Star Wars fan and requested that we play the Star Wars main theme song as our recessional. Melissa and the band delivered! It was so fun!
Lover by Taylor Swift is one of my favorite songs. I unfortunately was not able to hear Melissa and the band play this during cocktail hour due to couples photos. Melissa and the band made it a point to play this for me, and my brother recorded it.
Melissa is INCREDIBLY talented and is so easy to work with. I would book her again and again! Do not hesitate to book her.
String Trio
Response from Baethoven the Violinist:
Thank you so much for the kind words Tracey! It was very fun playing for you guys, especially getting to throw in the Star Wars theme for the processional haha - I love when people feel free to live a little and do something unique and that makes them happy. Thank you again for having us!

Melissa made my engagement night complete. Her skills, expertise and professionalism were top notch. Prior to the event she was very responsive, provided a song list and was excited to be a part of our special evening. I had originally requested a set amount of tracks that she agreed to learn and not only were they beautiful but Mel went above and beyond playing overtime. She was prompt on the delivery of the actual proposal and as the night went on we didn't want her to stop! She used a bluetooth speaker as accompaniment and it was just perfect. I highly recommend Melissa as a violinist and look forward to using her again for future events. Thank you!!

I hired Baethoven for a surprise marriage proposal and could not be happier with how professional, kind, patient, and helpful Baethoven was throughout the entire process. This was my first experience coordinating something like this and I was nervous about planning the details and executing the surprise. Nevertheless, Baethoven knew exactly what to do, where to be, and seamlessly pulled off the surprise better than I could’ve hoped. She gladly learned the two songs I requested and played them brilliantly. If that wasn’t enough, her fee is a real bargain for the priceless experience she curates. Did I mention Baethoven gladly accepted this gig despite it being on her birthday?! You won’t get that sorta accommodation from anyone else!
Long story short: If you’re planning a proposal—or literally any other special event—hire Baethoven! You’ll be so thankful you did.
Violinist
Response from Baethoven the Violinist:
This is one of my favorite proposals I've ever played! Adding just a touch of my own magic to the magic already present between you two was an honor - and I only teared up a little bit, because I am a professional haha. Thank you for letting me be a part of it <3

She elevated my event with her violin and impressed all my guests. She made it a memorable night with her music and I’m already inviting her back to another event.
Pop Music

I hired Melissa to play during the ceremony, cocktail hour, and first dance for my wedding, and I'm so glad I did! At the time I chose Melissa, she didn't have as many reviews as she does now, so I admit that part of me was a bit nervous how it would turn out. However, Melissa ended up being amazing! She is super talented, easy to work with, chose great songs (both romantic and fun, upbeat ones), and I couldn't be happier with how it all turned out. I would highly recommend Melissa for anyone looking for a violinist for their event.
Violinist

I hired Melissa to play at my aunt’s “Cheers to 80 Years” birthday luncheon. Melissa was quick to respond and book. I wasn’t quite sure what playlist would be appropriate. I just gave her a few ideas of artists my aunt might enjoy. She curated the most amazing and enjoyable set and she was the highlight of the luncheon! So blessed to have found her and experience her talent. I would definitely hire again and recommend her! Many thanks, Melissa!!
Violinist
Response from Baethoven the Violinist:
Thank you JM! You guys were an absolute delight to play for, I enjoyed talking with you just as much as I did playing.

I have the pleasure and privilege to have Melissa play at my debutante ball. She was extremely communicative and very professional. She played exquisitely and played songs that everyone knew. She made a special day even more beautiful.
Violinist
Response from Baethoven the Violinist:
Thank you so much for the kind words! I had a fun time playing for you guys. You are a lovely young lady and I wish you the best of luck in the wonderful journey ahead of you!

We hired Melissa for our wedding reception and she did not disappoint . Melissa had a myriad of song selections , it was so hard to pick only enough for 2 hours . I grew up in a Mexican household , where we typically hire Mariachi’s, so upon letting my family know that I would be hiring a violinist , they were skeptical. However , the wedding came and they were so amazed , they loved it ! Please hire Melissa , you won’t be disappointed . She played my favorite songs and even allowed me to submit a few new song selections . I would definitely hire her again for another event .
Violinist
Response from Baethoven the Violinist:
Oh my goodness, thank you so much! I appreciate you taking a chance and trusting me with something different than you're used to, and i'm so glad your family and friends liked it. Congratulations to you two again and thank you!

Melissa was fantastic to work with. She was professional the entire time and helped make our wedding feel incredibly special. It was a breeze to work with her, and she has an extensive library of songs covering our favorites and mainstream and classical music. Highly recommended!!
Violinist
Response from Baethoven the Violinist:
It was awesome getting to play for you guys, I hope you enjoyed the footage I got of it as well! Wishing you and your family all the best <3

Beathoven was definitely a great addition to our wedding. We did have a mishap where my son fell a busted his head which threw alot off but she was still there concerned. She played for my ceremony and cocktail hr, I wish I would have has her for longer. She is amazing and talented and I urge any one to book her!!!
Violinist
Response from Baethoven the Violinist:
Thank you so much Rishawn! It was a pleasure to play for you guys, I'm glad your son was fine too haha. Congrats again to you and your beautiful, growing family!

Let me start off by saying her playlist is amazing!! Not only that she played a song that wasn’t on their at my request. She sounds so good in person. She will not disappoint!!!

My guests all loved her performance!
Violinist
Response from Baethoven the Violinist:
Thank you Shanta! It was a beautiful wedding, thank you for letting me be a part of a wonderful day <3
Mel was beyond great and professional for my now fiance' and I's big day. She arrived 30 minutes early to set up and was communicative the entire time beforehand. Even with some unexpected delays from a separate party, Mel was very patient and remained very helpful through it all. I would 10/10 recommend to anyone who is considering hiring her!
Violinist
Response from Baethoven the Violinist:
Hey Brandon, thank you so much for the kind words! You two are a beautiful couple and it was a pleasure to play for you. I had to do my best to not tear up myself, it was so touching!
Melissa worked with me from the very start to the end, any questions I had she was there for me even with her busy schedule.
I promise that she will go above and beyond for whatever event you hire her for.
Thank you Melissa!
Violinist

Melissa was great for my surprise proposal. She was incredibly talented and was able to play all the songs I requested. She was on time, professional, and she played absolutely beautifully. Will definitely use her services for future events.
Violinist

I hired Baethoven for a surprise Valentine's Day Proposal for my girlfriend and I couldn't be more happy! She went along with my plan to surprise my girlfriend and nailed it! She pretended to be a random person at the park, then swiftly busted out the violin and played beautifully. She was overjoyed at the combo and said yes!
Strolling Violinist
Booking Info
Upcoming Booked Events
October 28, 2023 • 11:00am - 2:30pm | Wedding Reception |
November 25, 2023 • 5:00pm - 6:00pm | Wedding Ceremony |
December 02, 2023 • 4:00pm - 6:00pm | Wedding Ceremony |
January 27, 2024 • 6:00pm - 7:30pm | Quinceañera |
March 02, 2024 • 4:30pm - 6:00pm | Wedding Ceremony |
Past Booked Events
September 09, 2023 • 6:30pm - 7:30pm | Cocktail Party |
July 21, 2023 • 4:00pm - 6:00pm | Wedding Ceremony |
July 02, 2023 • 6:30pm - 7:30pm | Dinner Party |
June 23, 2023 • 7:00pm - 8:00pm | Dinner Party |
June 11, 2023 • 6:30pm - 7:30pm | Personal Occasion |
April 05, 2023 • 7:00pm - 8:30pm | Dinner Party |
March 31, 2023 • 7:30pm - 10:30pm | Birthday Party |
March 25, 2023 • 2:00pm - 4:00pm | Wedding Ceremony |
February 18, 2023 • 3:30pm - 6:00pm | Wedding Ceremony |
February 14, 2023 • 8:30am - 10:00am | Surprise |
February 11, 2023 • 3:30pm - 6:30pm | Wedding Ceremony |
December 31, 2022 • 4:30pm - 5:00pm | Wedding Engagement |
December 18, 2022 • 4:00pm - 5:00pm | Dinner Party |
November 05, 2022 • 3:00pm - 4:00pm | Wedding Ceremony |
October 02, 2022 • 4:30pm - 6:30pm | Wedding Reception |
October 01, 2022 • 4:00pm - 5:30pm | Wedding Ceremony |
August 12, 2022 • 2:30pm - 4:00pm | Wedding Ceremony |
July 16, 2022 • 6:00pm - 7:00pm | Birthday Party |
May 21, 2022 • 11:00am - 12:00pm | Wedding Ceremony |
April 23, 2022 • 6:30pm - 8:00pm | Wedding Reception |
April 15, 2022 • 7:30pm - 9:00pm | Wedding Ceremony |
March 19, 2022 • 5:00pm - 5:30pm | Surprise |
September 04, 2021 • 7:00pm - 8:00pm | Surprise |
August 24, 2021 • 6:00pm - 6:15pm | Personal Occasion |
August 22, 2021 • 5:30pm - 6:15pm | Wedding Ceremony |
July 09, 2021 • 6:30pm - 7:15pm | Personal Occasion |
June 18, 2021 • 12:00pm - 12:30pm | Surprise |
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