The Ethel W. Keister Music Fund at The Pittsburgh Foundation was set up by Ms. Keister in 1955 to support the musical pursuits and activities she supported throughout her lifetime.
Keister was known for her work in music education, conservation, and scholarships. In 1971, Governor Milton Shapp named her as a Distinguished Daughter of Pennsylvania. She had a clear passion for music and the future of art. Ethel founded the Opera Workshop, the Operalogue, and the Laboratory Music School at Chatham College. She was one of the founders of the Pittsburgh Playhouse and the Women’s Association of the Pittsburgh Symphony. Over the years, Ethel has awarded many scholarships to music students.
Ethel was a president of the Women’s Association of the Pittsburgh Symphony Society and the Friends of Harvey Gaul, Inc. She also served on the boards of the Mendelssohn Choir and the Pittsburgh Opera. Additionally, she is a former member of the Metropolitan Opera National Council of New York City and an honorary life member of the National Federation of Music Clubs.