-
Bethany Beach Cellofest Boardwalk Performance
2025 Bethany Beach Cellofest
22-31 July 2025 | Bethany Beach, Delaware
All events are free and open to the public
Cello Music at the Beach
Join us for the second annual Bethany Beach Cellofest, a joyful week of cello music, community, and creative exploration at the Delaware shore. Our 2025 theme, “Bach and Beyond,” features solo, ensemble, and outreach performances inspired by the music of J. S. Bach and its lasting influence.
Organized by the Cello Museum and hosted by St. Martha’s Episcopal Church, this free, family-friendly festival brings internationally acclaimed performers together with local audiences for a celebration of music in Bethany Beach.
Meet the Artists
Jennifer Kloetzel, cellist
Erica Lessie, cellist
Peter Wilson, violinist
Brenda Neece, cellist
The BrickHouse Duo
Bethany Beach Cellofest
Cello Ensemble
Public Events Schedule
All events are free and open to the public. No tickets or registration required.
-
Bach’s Lunch with Jennifer Kloetzel
Tuesday, July 22 • 12:00 PM
St. Martha’s Episcopal Church
Bring your lunch and enjoy a rich program of unaccompanied cello music performed by internationally acclaimed cellist Jennifer Kloetzel. The recital features works by J. S. Bach, Philippe Hersant, Sarah Gibson, and an East Coast premiere by rising composer Cicely Parnas.
This concert is part of Mission: Bach – The Road to Inspiration, Kloetzel’s visionary project pairing the beloved Bach Cello Suites with newly commissioned works that reimagine their legacy for today’s audiences.
-
Cellofest on the Boardwalk
Thursday, July 24 • 7:30 PM
Bethany Beach Bandstand
A lively evening of cello ensemble works and duets featuring the 2025 Bethany Beach Cellofest Ensemble and cello soloist Jennifer Kloetzel, known for her expressive artistry as both a soloist and chamber musician.
Also appearing: The BrickHouse Duo (Kloetzel, cello & Peter Wilson, violin). A conductor, composer, former member of The President’s Own, and longtime “Voice” of Marine Barracks Washington, Wilson will also serve as the evening’s emcee.
Come and enjoy favorite music from Bach to the Beatles with the ocean breeze.
-
Bach & Beyond
Coffee ConcertSunday, July 27 • approximately 9:00 AM (between services)
St. Martha’s Episcopal Church
Enjoy coffee and music in this relaxed concert between the 8:00 and 10:00 AM services. The program includes works by Bach, Copland, Lennon & McCartney, Peter Wilson, and more, performed by the 2025 Cellofest Ensemble, soloist Jennifer Kloetzel, and The BrickHouse Duo—a dynamic chamber pair known for their engaging performances and inventive programming.
-
Special Service Music at St. Martha's
Sunday, July 27 • 10:00 AM
St. Martha’s Episcopal ChurchJoin the Sunday worship service with guest performers the Bethany Beach Cellofest Ensemble, The BrickHouse Duo, and Cellofest faculty Jennifer Kloetzel, Erica Lessie, and Brenda Neece. The music includes works by J. S. Bach, Saint-Saëns, Leonard Cohen, and Peter Wilson—highlighting Bach’s timeless legacy alongside today’s musical voices.
-
A Whale of a Cello Tale - Cello Story Time
Wednesday, July 30 • 10:30 AM
South Coastal Library,
Bethany BeachWhat happens when a whale falls in love with the sound of the cello? Come find out in this Story Time adventure featuring The Whale Who Wanted to Play Cello by Elizabeth Weber Levy, illustrated by “Fado.” Enjoy live cello music, a playful art activity, and a celebration of discovering our own unique talents. Presented for the very young and the young at heart. Led by cellists Erica Lessie and Brenda Neece.
-
Music for the Moon - Cello Story Time
Thursday, July 31 • 10:30 AM
Bethany Beach Nature Center
Join cellists Erica Lessie and Brenda Neece at the Nature Center for a playful morning of music, storytelling, and imagination. We’ll read Music for Mister Moon by Philip C. Stead and illustrated by Erin E. Stead, a beautiful story about a young cellist, an owl, and the moon. Enjoy live cello music and a creative activity inspired by the moon. Perfect for the young and young at heart.
“Music is the divine way to tell beautiful, poetic things to the heart.” — Pablo Casals
About the Cello Festival
The Bethany Beach Cellofest is a celebration of the cello’s expressive voice, from the timeless music of J. S. Bach to newly commissioned works and popular favorites. Designed for audiences of all ages, the festival features performances, storytelling, and community outreach across Bethany Beach.
Founded by the Cello Museum and hosted by St. Martha’s Episcopal Church, the festival brings professional artists, students, and music lovers together during the last half of July for meaningful musical connection.
Get Involved
Your sponsorship or donation helps bring the magic of cello music to Bethany Beach, supporting artist travel, free public concerts, and community outreach programs.
Interested in sponsoring the Bethany Beach Cellofest or making a donation?
Please reach out to us via our contact page or email the director of the Bethany Beach Cellofest, Dr. Brenda Neece.
Interested in joining us as a cellist?
A few spots are still available for adult cellists, with free accommodations offered for solo adult travelers.
Register here, or contact us with questions.
With Thanks to Our Sponsors
Your support helps keep all Cellofest events free and open to the public.
