The inauguration of the Sabancı University Performing Arts Center (SGM) was announced in June 2004 with a letter personally signed by Sakıp Sabancı three days before he passed away. SGM is now the largest conference and art center in the Anatolian side of Istanbul, and hosts the performances of a large number of prominent artists and ensembles throughout the year.

SGM has a capacity of 912 and serves not just Sabancı University faculty and students, but the wider community surrounding the campus. By inviting internationally-renowned performers and ensembles, SGM ensures that audiences of all ages and walks of life make time for artistic events that they will appreciate, helping to keep the artistic bar high.

Under the guidance of Yekta Kara, former solo performer, chief dramaturge and director in the Istanbul State Opera and Ballet, SGM has featured globally popular performances and concerts by the leading performers of Turkey and the world since its inauguration.