Mon Valley Academy for the Arts (MVAA) unveiled a significant public art installation honoring the region’s rich musical history. A large mural featuring the likenesses of local music legends Sam Bill, Vinnie Colaiuta, Scott Elias, John Gresh, Cheryl Hardwick, Jeff Lashway, Danny Leoni, Jerry Leoni, Mark Smith, and Van Ross Redding was painted on the side of the Peter J. Daley Cultural Center (MVAA South), located at 119 Brownsville Avenue. Learn more about the Brownsville Music Legends featured on the mural.

This project was part of Rivers of Steel’s Creative Leadership Program, completed with funding support from The Benedum Foundation, Pennsylvania Council for the Arts’ Creative Communities Project, and an Appalachian Regional Commission POWER grant. Founded on the principles of heritage development, community partnership, and a reverence for the region’s natural and shared resources, Rivers of Steel strengthened the economic and cultural fabric of western Pennsylvania by fostering dynamic initiatives and transformative experiences. The Creative Leadership Program was a three-year intensive community development incubator for communities within the Rivers of Steel National Heritage Area.

Throughout 2024, participants collaborated closely with Rivers of Steel staff members Ashley Kyber and Jon Engel, engaging in various events and public art initiatives for Brownsville’s downtown area. Muralist Atalie Gagnet was chosen to lead the mural project, working alongside local youth, artists, and residents interested in learning about large-scale mural design and installation. Known for her ability to create impactful public art, Atalie drew on her fine arts background and extensive painting experience to craft murals that enlivened and connected communities. For this project, she partnered with residents to design a mural that was both accessible and deeply reflective of Brownsville’s unique heritage.

The mural celebrated these influential figures whose contributions shaped the region's music scene. The unveiling ceremony was held on Saturday, November 2, 2024, at MVAA South and featured live performances from MVAA’s talented student performance groups, including members of VoiceZ on Fire and the Regimental Fife & Drum Unit.

This family-friendly event was free and open to the public. Attendees enjoyed light refreshments, live music, and an opportunity to celebrate the cultural legacy of the region’s extraordinary musicians. The mural stands as a tribute to their lasting impact on the community and the music world.

Annette Buffer, MVAA President, shared her enthusiasm for the event:

“We were excited to work with Rivers of Steel to honor these Brownsville legends. This mural preserves their legacy and will inspire future generations of musicians. I encouraged everyone in the community to join us for this special unveiling and celebrate the talent from our town.”

MVAA expressed gratitude to Rivers of Steel for their dedication to the arts and for making this project possible. Their support reflected a commitment to promoting and preserving the Mon Valley's cultural heritage.

View ALL photos from the MVAA Mural Unveiling

On Sunday, November 3, 2024, at St. Mary’s Social Hall, 118 Church Street, Brownsville, PA, MVAA hosted an evening of music and fun.

Performers included the TC Jr. Stage Band and Pittsburgh legend Billy Price. Students in the TC Jr. Stage Band received certificates of appreciation from MVAA CEO Mark Smith and were presented with checks from the Frick Financial Federal Credit Union to recognize their efforts in participating in the youth performance group.

View more photos from the event on our website

📸🎶 The 2024 MVAA Yearbook is Here! 🎶📸

Capture the memories of this incredible year with the 2024 MVAA Yearbook! This yearbook is a timeless keepsake, packed with photos of our students, performance groups, events, programs, awards, sponsors, and more. It’s perfect for family, friends, and loved ones — a gift that will be cherished for years! ❤️

Get your copy for just $10! To order, see any MVAA board member, text 724-970-5841, or email us at info@monvalleyacademyforthearts.org. You can also order online via PayPal. Yearbooks must be picked up in person. Additional charges will apply if you would like yours mailed, and you should use this PayPal link instead.

Don’t miss out on this special memento from a fantastic year with MVAA!

The holiday spirit shone brightly at Brownsville Light Up Night, where the community gathered to celebrate the season with music, laughter, and camaraderie. The evening featured an unforgettable lineup of performances, including the captivating melodies of Take 5 Brass and the heartfelt harmonies of the MVAA Community Choir. Families and friends filled the air with cheer, singing along to festive favorites and enjoying the warmth of a close-knit community coming together to celebrate. Attendees were treated to a joyous atmosphere that perfectly captured the essence of the holiday season.

MVAA President Annette Buffer shared her enthusiasm for the event, saying, "Brownsville Light Up Night is a beautiful reminder of the power of music to bring people together. It’s always heartwarming to see our community join in song and celebration, spreading joy and holiday cheer. This is what the season is all about." The event not only showcased incredible local talent but also reinforced the sense of unity and goodwill that defines the Mon Valley community.

View more photos from the event on our website

Mon Valley Academy for the Arts (MVAA) President Annette Buffer, CEO Mark Smith, and piano and brass instructor Carla DellaPenna recently visited Monessen Elementary School to host a special assembly, introducing students to the transformative power of music. During the event, Smith and DellaPenna shared insights into how music education fosters creativity, discipline, and confidence, inspiring young minds to explore their own musical interests. Buffer joined in highlighting the importance of music as a tool for personal growth, emphasizing its ability to connect people and create lasting joy. Engaging students with lively demonstrations and interactive segments, the trio showcased how music can cultivate a lifelong appreciation for the arts.

“Music has the power to change lives,” said Annette Buffer. “We want every student to know they have the ability to achieve great things through the arts, and we are here to support their journey.” This event underscored MVAA’s unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on youth through accessible and impactful music programs.

MVAA Treasurer SueAnne Antonucci recently led a special workshop on health for homeschooled students, held at the Peter J. Daley Cultural Center (MVAA South) in Brownsville, PA. As part of MVAA’s successful homeschool special workshops initiative, the session provided an engaging and informative exploration of health topics, focusing on overall wellness. Antonucci's expertise and enthusiasm created an interactive environment where students could ask questions, participate in hands-on activities, and gain valuable knowledge to support healthy habits. This workshop exemplifies MVAA’s dedication to offering diverse educational opportunities that enrich the lives of young learners in the community.

Mon Valley Academy for the Arts (MVAA) recently hosted a homeschool curriculum sale at the Peter J. Daley Cultural Center (MVAA South) in Brownsville, PA, providing local homeschooling families an opportunity to purchase high-quality materials to supplement their instruction. The sale featured a diverse selection of resources, including textbooks, workbooks, educational games, and hands-on learning tools, all at affordable prices. Parents were able to browse and connect with other homeschooling families, fostering a sense of community and shared learning. This event reflects MVAA's commitment to supporting education in the region by providing resources and programs tailored to the unique needs of homeschoolers.

Mon Valley Academy for the Arts (MVAA) is excited to announce that MVAA-themed merchandise is now available in our official online shop! Show your support for the arts with a variety of items featuring our logo and designs that celebrate our mission and programs. From stylish apparel to unique accessories, there’s something for everyone. Visit the MVAA Shop today at to browse our full selection and make your purchase. Every item you buy helps us continue to provide affordable, high-quality music and arts programs in the Mon Valley!

Mon Valley Academy for the Arts (MVAA) recently hosted a festive holiday artisan market at the Peter J. Daley Cultural Center (MVAA South) in Brownsville, PA. The event brought together talented local artisans and crafters, offering a wide array of handmade goods, including unique jewelry, holiday décor, artwork, and specialty gifts. Attendees enjoyed a warm and welcoming atmosphere, complete with seasonal music and refreshments, creating a delightful holiday shopping experience. The market not only provided an opportunity to support local artists but also underscored MVAA's dedication to fostering creativity and community engagement in the Mon Valley region.

Mon Valley Academy for the Arts (MVAA) will host a group guitar workshop for intermediate to advanced-level players on Saturday, January 18, from 1:00 to 2:30 PM, led by instructor Gary Antol. The workshop, open to participants aged 16 and older, costs $30 per student and requires attendees to bring their own instruments.

The session will take place at the Sam Bill School of Music in Brownsville, PA. Space is limited, so those interested are encouraged to text 724-518-3957, call 724-561-5616, or email info@monvalleyacademyforthearts.org to reserve their spot.

"Painting in the Penthouse Winter Holiday Series" is a festive lineup of art classes perfect for the holiday season. Running from December 5, 2024, through February 13, 2025, these Thursday evening sessions feature a variety of creative activities, including Paint and Sip classes led by talented instructors like Hope Yeardie and Dakota Kunkel, as well as clay-based workshops such as Air-Dry Clay Ornaments and Clay Gnomes led by Brittany Birch.

Each class is affordably priced at $15 per adult, with a special discount of $10 per class when you bring a friend. Classes are free for kids, making this an inclusive opportunity for all ages to explore their artistic side. 

Join Us on Thursday Evenings!

• Location: Peter J. Daley Cultural Center, 119 Brownsville Ave., Brownsville
• Time: Thursdays @ 6:30-8 PM
• Cost: $15/person (Free for Kids under 10)
• Call 724-561-5616 to reserve seats

Programming by Rivers of Steel Arts, Rivers of Steel Creative Leadership Program

• Band Rehearsals
• Birthday Parties
• Retirement Parties
• Club Meetings
• Wedding Showers
• Baby Showers
• Fundraising Dinners
• Private Parties
• Much More! Your Ideas are Welcome!