Why Cellofest?

Step away from daily life and immerse yourself in music.

Spend a week focused on your playing, surrounded by supportive musicians, experienced faculty, and the quiet inspiration of the beach—paired with focused, indoor music-making.

This is not a competition.
It is a cello retreat at the beach.

It is a place to:
- reconnect with your instrument
- refine your technique
- explore unaccompanied repertoire
- remember why you love the cello

No auditions. No pressure. Just focused, joyful music-making.
Cellists at St. Martha's at the 2025 Bethany Beach Cellofest

What Your Week Feels Like

A balance of focused work, musical community, and time by the sea

🌅 Morning
Stretch on the beach, followed by indoor technique and focused repertoire work

🌊 Afternoon
Classes, ensemble playing, coaching, and private lessons—balanced with a generous lunch break for a recital, beach walk, or practice time

🎶 Evening
Concerts, informal playing, or time to practice and unwind

☀️ In Between
Moments to rest, connect, and enjoy the rhythm of the beach

👉 All playing takes place indoors in a comfortable, focused setting.

What’s Included


✔️ Two private lessons
✔️ Daily classes and workshops
✔️ Coaching on unaccompanied repertoire
✔️ Ensemble playing
✔️ Two private lessons
✔️ Performance opportunities
✔️ Faculty demonstrations
✔️ Optional wellness sessions
✔️ Cellofest T-shirt

What’s Not Included

🏡 Housing
🍽️ Meals
✈️ Travel

Who This Is For

This program is designed for:

• Adult amateur cellists
• String teachers and returning players
• Mature teens*

You should be comfortable working on repertoire at the level of Bach’s Cello Suite No. 1.

You do not need to be perfect—just prepared and open to learning.

Whether you are returning to the cello or continuing a lifelong practice, you will find a place here.

*Participants under 18 must attend with a parent or guardian.

Faculty

Jennifer Kloetzel
Internationally recognized recording artist and cellist in The BrickHouse Duo

Erica Lessie
Cellist, educator, and author of Postcards from Erica

Brenda Neece
Cellist, educator, and curator of the Cello Museum


A dedicated and supportive faculty committed to meeting you where you are and helping you grow as a cellist.
Jennifer Kloetzel, Erica Lessie, and Brenda Neece at Bethany Beach
  • Summer Time at Bethany Beach

A Special Place to Be

Hosted by St. Martha’s Episcopal Church, just a short walk from the beach. Bethany Beach offers:

  • Beautiful Coastline

    Quiet beaches and open skies create a calm, inspiring setting for music and reflection.

  • Relaxed, Creative Atmosphere

    A supportive environment where you can focus, explore, and grow at your own pace.

  • Balance of Focus and Rest

    Structured cello sessions balanced with time to recharge, walk on the beach, and practice.

  • Bring Your Family

    Many participants turn the week into a beach holiday, sharing concerts and time at the beach.

  • Class with Jennifer Kloetzel at Cellofest 2025
  • Cellofest Performance 2025
  • Morning Wellness Session on the Beach 2025

"Cellofest is so much fun! We work hard, we laugh, we learn. The facility is perfect. I am forever thankful and plan to continue to attend." — Judy

2024 & 2025 Bethany Beach Cellofest Attendee

Tuition

Limited enrollment · small group experience

FAQ

  • What level is required?

    Participants should be comfortable working on repertoire at the level of Bach’s Cello Suite No. 1.

    The program is designed for adult amateur cellists, string teachers, and mature teens who are open to learning.

  • Can I participate if I feel “out of practice”?

    Yes. We meet you where you are. Many participants are returning to the cello after time away. As long as you are comfortable working at the level of Bach’s Cello Suite No. 1, you will be well supported.

  • Do I need to prepare repertoire?

    Yes. Participants should come prepared to work on the assigned repertoire for the week.

    Music will be sent out in advance (in May), including selections from Bach’s Cello Suite No. 1 and a suite by Rudolf Matz, along with additional class materials.

    You are welcome to arrive with your parts learned or in progress—this week is designed to support you wherever you are in that process.

    We are happy to answer questions about preparation once materials are distributed.

  • Are private lessons included?

    Yes. Each participant will receive two private lessons with a member of the faculty during the week.

  • Will there be performance opportunities?

    Yes. Participants will have opportunities to perform in informal settings as well as in public performances during the week.

  • Do I need to attend every session?

    Participants are encouraged to attend all sessions, but the schedule allows flexibility. You are welcome to take time to rest, practice, or enjoy the beach as needed.

  • Can I bring family?

    Yes—many participants do.

    Bethany Beach is a quiet, family-friendly town, and the schedule is designed to allow time for both focused cello work and time with family. Family members are welcome to attend public performances.

  • Where do I stay?

    Participants arrange their own housing.

    Bethany Beach offers a range of options, including vacation rentals, hotels, and nearby coastal towns. We recommend booking early, as summer availability is limited.

    A list of suggested accommodations will be provided after registration.

    For adult solo travelers, we will have some free accommodations made available through the generosity of members of St. Martha's Choir. You will still require your own transportation to get around Bethany Beach. Please let us know if you are interested in this option.

  • What happens after I register?

    After registering, you’ll receive a welcome email with next steps, including repertoire (sent in May), housing suggestions, and a participant information form.

Join Us at the Beach This August

A week of cello, community, and inspiration.

👉 Enroll Now

Thank you!

Celebrating Our Sponsors

St Martha's Episcopal Church, Bethany Beach, DE
Jennifer Kloetzel
Stephanie Tsantes