The Californer - Cellos at the Beach: Bethany Beach Hosts Inaugural Cellofest

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Cellofest - The Cello Visits Chief Little Owl

Acclaimed Cello Soloist, Jennifer Kloetzel

Innovative Cellist Erica Lessie with COUS

BETHANY BEACH, Del. - Californer -- This June, Bethany Beach will ring with the rich sounds of cellos at the inaugural Cellofest, organized by the Cello Museum. From June 7th through June 16th, music enthusiasts are invited to attend a series of free events featuring celebrated soloist Jennifer Kloetzel, innovative cellist Erica Lessie, and Cello Museum curator, Dr. Brenda Neece. The Cellofest will showcase a wide range of cello music alongside a selection of unusual cellos, presenting educational programs suitable for all ages.

The festival begins at 2 PM on June 7th with a "Cellos of Unusual Shape" talk and demonstration by Erica Lessie at the South Coastal Library. This program offers a fresh perspective on the versatility of the cello through Lessie's unique instruments.

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On June 12th at 10:30 AM, young music lovers can engage in an interactive children's program at the same venue. This session includes storytime, a cello "petting zoo," and a craft session where children can make their own simple instruments, fostering a love for music and creativity.

On June 13th at 7:30 PM, the Cellofest Ensemble and Jennifer Kloetzel will perform a mix of classical, folk, and popular tunes on the boardwalk. Kloetzel brings her expressive and powerful cello performances to the festival. On June 14th at 10:30 AM, the ensemble will perform at the Bethany Beach Nature Center, presenting a storytime for children and allowing attendees to experience the rich sounds of the cello while surrounded by nature.

The festival reaches its grand finale on June 16th with a performance at approximately 9 AM in the Parish Hall of St. Martha's Episcopal Church, immediately following the 8 AM service. The festivities continue with cello music during the 10 AM service. This final performance will showcase the cello ensemble in a memorable and spiritual close to the festival.

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Cellists participating in the festival will broaden their repertoire by studying pieces for unaccompanied cello by women composers, including Elena Ruehr, Reena Esmail, Andrea Casarrubios, Elaine Fine, Liz Davis Maxfield, Deborah Cheetham, Wanda Sobieska, and Rain Worthington. Each participating cellist will receive a private lesson and have the opportunity to perform as part of the Cellofest Cello Ensemble. Visit the Cello Guild, an educational division of the Cello Museum, to register and get more information.

Bethany Beach Cellofest is not just an event; it is a celebration of music, community, and learning. This innovative arts program is supported by St. Martha's Episcopal Church, Jennifer Kloetzel, Vaulted Sky Music, Bethany Beach Books, and High Strung Violins and Guitars. This festival is drawing participants from all over the U.S., enriching Bethany Beach's cultural offerings and providing an exciting attraction for visitors.