The Sonny Pugar Memorial, Inc.

The Sonny Pugar Memorial, Inc. strengthens the region's cultural workforce and economy by ensuring a vibrant contemporary music scene. To further our mission, we underwrite local professional musicians' live performances in area health facilities, sponsor showcases to spotlight original music and creative interpretation, and pursue opportunities that encourage a sense of community among local musicians.

Our flagship program "Music Smiles" pays local professional musicians for live performances in area health facilities. The program expands musicians' performance opportunities while creating healing environments for patients, families, visitors, and staff. This year, through its 7 year old "Music Smiles" program, The Sonny Pugar Memorial sponsored--from lobby to unit to bedside-- many live music performances at Pittsburgh's Children's Hospital, Children's Institute, Family House, Forbes, Magee, Mercy, Montefiore, Mon Valley, Presbyterian, Shadyside and Western Psych.