The first episode of the Off the Wall podcast from Mon Valley Academy for the Arts is now live—and it begins exactly where it should: with the story of the wall itself.

Recorded at the Peter J. Daley Cultural Center in Brownsville, Pennsylvania, this inaugural episode introduces listeners to the powerful inspiration behind the “Legends Mural,” a 60-by-40-foot tribute honoring the musicians who helped shape the sound and spirit of the Mon Valley and beyond.

Hosted by MVAA CEO Mark Smith and President Annette Buffer, the episode reflects on the organization’s 10-year journey—from grassroots beginnings to a growing regional arts hub serving nearly 100 students with a team of dedicated instructors.

 A Wall That Tells a Story

The mural, created through a partnership with Rivers of Steel and a coalition of regional artists, stands as both a landmark and a living archive. Featuring names like Sam Bill, Jerry Leone, and Cheryl Hardwick, it captures generations of musical excellence rooted in Brownsville and the surrounding region.

But as the episode makes clear, the mural is only the beginning.

“There are so many musicians—there’s just not enough wall,” Annette Buffer notes, pointing toward the deeper purpose of the podcast: to continue telling the stories that couldn’t all fit in paint.

 What to Expect from Off the Wall

This podcast series will feature conversations with the artists on the mural, their families, and others whose lives intersect with this rich musical legacy. Listeners can expect:

• Personal stories from local and nationally recognized musicians
• Reflections on the Mon Valley’s cultural history
• Insights into MVAA’s programs and future direction
• A deeper look at the people behind the music

Future episodes will include interviews with figures connected to the mural—including family members of those no longer with us—ensuring their influence continues to resonate.

 More Than a Podcast

The episode also highlights MVAA’s expanding programs, including:

• The Sam Bill Legacy Band (a multi-generational community ensemble)
• The Regimental Fife and Drum Unit
• VoiceZ on Fire show choir & community choir
• Youth-focused ensembles like the Junior Stage Band
• MVAA Legends Drum & Bugle Corps
• Take 5 Brass Quintet

Each initiative reflects a shared mission: to make music accessible, meaningful, and alive in the community.

 Looking Ahead

As MVAA enters its second decade, Off the Wall signals something larger than a podcast—it’s a continuation of a legacy.

A way of asking—and answering—the question that drives the entire project:

What happens when a place makes room for music—and what happens when those places disappear?

With this first episode, MVAA makes its answer clear:
You build the space. You tell the stories. And you invite the world to listen.

 The first episode of the Off the Wall podcast is now available. Stay tuned for upcoming interviews and stories from the wall—and beyond.

Thanks to Our MVAA Sponsors

Mon Valley Academy for the Arts extends sincere thanks to the generous sponsors and partners who make our work—and the launch of the Off the Wall podcast—possible. We are especially grateful for the support of the Fayette County Tourism Grant Program and GO Laurel Highlands, whose investment in this project helps us share the stories, music, and cultural legacy of the Mon Valley with a wider audience.

We also recognize and appreciate the individuals, businesses, civic organizations, and foundations whose continued support sustains our programs year-round. Our heartfelt thanks go to our individual donors—Ann Trynock, Duane and Carrie Kromer, Dan Watson, Annette and Jim Caruso, Cindy Furlong, Annette Buffer, Ricky Ricco, Carla and Nettie DellaPenna, Heidi and Kevin Kavanaugh, Lucretia McCory, Lou Antonucci, Chip Giannetti, Camilla Ferraro, Peggy Ann Klinchenko, Sarah Morris, Connie Gore, Patty Thearle, Mary Pipik, SueAnne Antonucci, Carla E. Anderton and Noah Churchel, the Ursic Family, and many others—whose commitment reflects the strength of our community.

We are equally grateful to our corporate and business supporters, including EQT Foundation, Community Bank, Somerset Trust Company, Frick Financial Federal Credit Union, American Eagle Better World Foundation, M&T Bank Charitable Foundation, Highway Appliance, SWAN (Strategic Workforce & Arts Network), and The Glades Social Club in memory of Adam “Leaf” Geschwindner; as well as our civic partners—Brownsville Rotary, Old Time Fiddlers, and Southwestern Pennsylvania Human Services, Inc.—for their ongoing encouragement and collaboration.

Finally, we acknowledge the vital role of our foundation and institutional funders, including the Washington County Community Foundation, the Community Foundation of Westmoreland County, the Community Foundation of Fayette County, and The Pittsburgh Foundation. Support for our Empower a Rising Star (EARS) program is provided in part by the Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council through its Creative Sector Flex Fund, and through Pennsylvania Creative Industries, powered by the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts. Together, these partners make it possible for MVAA to expand access to arts education, preserve our region’s musical heritage, and bring projects like Off the Wall to life.