Chautauqua Institution Amphitheater Staff

07/12/2026

I really enjoyed my 10-day visit to Chautauqua Institution and was thankful to see so many of my Amp/CHQ family spanning my tenure! I was also very happy to sit down with Daily writer Patricia Beagle and tell stories for an early evening. If you haven't been following Amphitheater happenings closely, this article will help to get up caught up:

SKYLAR SEAVEY / STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERFormer Amphitheater manager Keith Schmitt, shown in the Amphitheater Wednesday, made a gift to support the Amp’s new audio system. PATRICIA BEAGLEContributing Writer Keith Schmitt retired

07/01/2026

I arrived on the grounds this afternoon just in time for my first Cigar Club session of the season(and a fine session it was). I will be around through July 8. Hopefully, you will see me at the Amp or on Bestor Plaza! Holler if you would like to meet-up.

03/26/2026

This looks familiar. I have watched some interesting findings observing technicians at work on the Amp pianos. Does anyone remember those paperweights made from gaff tape and fender washers found after several years? 😀https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1GYD384r2M/

02/03/2026

Which has a better view, an Amp crew member’s pit/basement hammock or this one?

Answer: If you’re in a hammock in the Amp pit basement, the view doesn’t matter. You’re trying to catch a quick nap so your eyes are closed(and maybe dreaming of this image). 😆

Low tide at Dolphin Resort, Havelock Island, Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

01/07/2026

Celebrate the life of Philip Aley and join others in sharing memories, stories, and condolences.

08/07/2025

PLEASE SHARE:

Hello Amp and CHQ family! I am heading to the Institution on Saturday to prepare for my presentation at the Hall of Christ, Tuesday, August 12, 5:30pm.

Yes, it is an odd time, but it makes for the opportunity for those working other events to attend this program in person. Know that this event will be live streamed on my YouTube channel and archived there as well.

https://www.youtube.com/

You can follow me and my adventures outside of my CHQ adventures on FB at: keith.schmitt.7 . Come on over!

Motivations: Keith's SE Asia Adventure
Hall of Christ
Chautauqua Institution
Tuesday, August 12
5:30pm

Photo below: Wat Paknam, Bangkok