Cuesta College's Music & Audio Technology Certificate Program
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In this episode of Central Coast Voices, host Fred Monroe interviews George Stone, the retiring director of audio technology at Cuesta College's music department, about the college's innovative 16-unit certificate program in Audio Technology. Stone shares the program's humble beginnings in 1998, its evolution with the construction of the modern 7100 Music Building in 2001, and its transformation into a nationally respected, hands-on training ground for aspiring audio engineers and music producers. The program, which requires four consecutive core courses and a foundational music class, is open to all interested students regardless of formal musical background, emphasizing practical skills over academic theory. Stone highlights the program’s real-world impact, with alumni now working at major venues like the Fremont Theater and touring with global stars like Bad Bunny. The episode also explores how the program leverages Cuesta’s primary theater for live recording and video production, creating immersive learning experiences. As Stone prepares to retire after 37 years in education, he underscores the program’s accessibility, affordability, and enduring relevance in a rapidly evolving music industry.
Cuesta College's Audio Technology Certificate Program is a 16-unit, two-year hands-on program open to all, regardless of musical background.
The program’s success stems from its integration with Cuesta’s primary theater, enabling live recording and video production for student training.
Alumni have gone on to work with major artists like Bad Bunny and hold key roles in live sound engineering across the Central Coast.
The program was born from a vision to make music technology accessible, fueled by the affordability of digital gear and platforms like CD Baby.
Students develop not only technical skills in Pro Tools but also confidence and communication abilities essential for professional success.
Introduction to Cuesta College's Audio Technology Program
Fred Monroe introduces the episode and sets the stage by highlighting Cuesta College’s unique focus on specialized certifications, particularly in music and audio technology. He frames the program as a transformative opportunity for students seeking practical, career-oriented training outside traditional four-year degrees.
The Origins and Evolution of the Program
George Stone recounts the program’s beginnings in 1998, when he was hired to modernize the music department. He describes the early challenges—limited space and equipment—and how the vision for a dedicated recording studio took shape during the planning of the new 7100 Music Building in 2001.
From Musician to Technology Leader
Stone reflects on his journey from a jazz band director and composer to the head of the audio technology program, emphasizing how the rise of affordable home recording gear and platforms like CD Baby created a perfect storm for the program’s growth.
The Role of the Cuesta Theater and Live Production
“We're going to have students do all of our concerts, and that's pretty exciting because they're now in charge of recording those concerts.”
Alumni Success and Industry Impact
“He was on tour with Bad Bunny for about a year and doing all sorts of jobs. And I've had him come back to the class to speak as a seasoned veteran now to tell the class, hey, this is what you do.”
“He was on tour with Bad Bunny for about a year and doing all sorts of jobs. And I've had him come back to the class to speak as a seasoned veteran now to tell the class, hey, this is what you do.”
“The doors are open all the time, regardless of age, regardless of production ability, regardless of anything, really. If you're interested, we have something to offer.”
“We're going to have students do all of our concerts, and that's pretty exciting because they're now in charge of recording those concerts.”
Host
Guest
George Stone
person
Cuesta College
organization
KCBX
organization
Brian Lanzone
person
Atascadero High School
organization
Rick Sutton
person
Bad Bunny
person
CD Baby
organization
Fremont Theater
organization
Ernie Watts
person
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