CHAUTAUQUA – A famed Chautauqua Institution organist has died following a car crash in Geneva, Ohio.

Jared Jacobsen was an organist and the Institution’s Coordinator of Worship and Sacred Music for nearly 25 years.

Institution President Michael E. Hill announced the news Wednesday.

“While we await formal word of Jared’s wishes, we know our community is grieving this unspeakable loss,” said Hill in a statement. “Many have described Jared and the music he masterfully created with the iconic Massey Memorial Organ at the Chautauqua Amphitheater as the “heart and soul” of Chautauqua.”

Jacobsen played his final service and concert on Sunday, a service he curated and titled “Camp Meeting is Over.”

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, in the Chautauqua Amphitheater with special guests and tributes to his life.

Those unable to join us in person can watch a livestream of the service on Facebook.