Online Classes | Cello Refinery

Online Bach summer courses for adults ~ 2026

(more detailed descriptions of courses and pre-requisites are below the red registation button)

Exploring Bach Cello Suites - 4 Saturday classes in August

No experience with Bach Suites required
Geared towards lower intermediate players
Also great for more advanced players to work on style and Baroque bow strokes

Summer Bach Project - 6 Sunday classes, July, August, September

For strong intermediate and advanced players who have already studied and performed some Bach

Both classes will learn two movements from Bach Suites; repertoire for the Summer Bach Project is decidedly more difficult. Performance opportunities will be offered in both classes, but you do not need to play for others to participate. Students may also ask for personal input and tips from Diane.

Class sizes are limited to 15 people; classes meet over the Zoom platform.

Each class meets for an hour.

Pdf materials are sent out to students as soon as they register.

Discount for those who enroll in both classes.

All classes are recorded for later review. You may enroll and chose to watch the class on the recording if your time zone or other scheduling conflicts mean you miss some classes.

You will be sent a zoom link before each class.

COURSE FEES

Exploring Bach Suites ~ 4 classes ~ $60

Summer Bach Project ~ 6 classes ~ $90

Both together ~ $120

DISCOUNT COURSE FEES for private students of Diane

Exploring Bach Suites ~ 4 classes ~ $40

Summer Bach Project ~ 6 classes ~ $60

Both together ~ $80

REGISTRATION for BACH COURSES

EXPLORING BACH CELLO SUITES

A series of four classes that will focus on Baroque style and bow strokes.

Saturdays: August 1, 8, 22, 29 at 9:30am Pacific | 12:30pm ET | 6:30pm CET

This class is suitable for cellists who are beginning their study of Bach, or who wish to develop more sophisticated technique in their playing, both of Bach and of the cello in general.

Repertoire:

Gigue from Suite #1 in G major
Bourree I and II from Suite #3 in C major

Level prerequisites:

Confidence playing in positions one through five with all extensions
Study of scales in keys up to 4 flats and sharps (2 or 3 octaves)
Fluency playing Eb major and C minor scales with slurs
Suzuki/ASTACAP level Book 4 or 5 (the Bourrees from Suite #3 appear in Book 7, but you can be at a lower level for this course)
Advanced players who wish to develop more knowledge of Baroque bow techniques and styles are invited to attend!

SUMMER BACH PROJECT 2026

Over 6 classes we'll study two movements of Bach Suites, aiming for performance level polish.

Sundays: July 26; August 2, 9, 23, 30; Sept 13 at 9:30am PT | 12:30pm ET | 6:30pm CET

This class is designed for players who seriously study cello, are ready for a challenge and are working to develop more artistry.

Repertoire:

Gigue from Suite #3 in C major
Allemande from Suite #4

Level prerequisites:

Some prior knowledge, study and performance of Bach Suites
Study of scales in all keys (2 or 3 octaves)
Good vibrato and tone control
Suzuki/ASTACAP level 6 or higher
Willingness to play for others - although you do not need to perform on the final class, we do gear the class towards that