Conservatory of Recording Arts and Sciences

The Conservatory of Recording Arts and Sciences (CRAS) stands as a premier private, for-profit technical school, passionately dedicated to the intricate world of audio recording. With a clear mission to "conserve, enhance, improve and promote the artistic and technical skills of audio recording," CRAS consistently prepares students to excel as qualified audio recording engineers, fostering a reputation for producing industry-ready professionals.

CRAS's unique journey began in 1980 in New York, where a 24-track recording studio called Songshop offered popular adult training classes. The escalating demand for intensive training and hands-on experience prompted an expansion that included crucial internships with commercial studios. This success led to a pivotal move to Tempe, Arizona, in 1987, where it was first renamed The Academy of Recording Sciences. By 1988, to truly reflect its profound educational purpose, the institution was rechristened the Conservatory of Recording Arts and Sciences, signifying its commitment to professional development.

The academic strengths of CRAS are deeply rooted in its practical, hands-on approach, equipping students with essential skills for the dynamic audio recording industry. In 2000, the school further expanded its capabilities by opening a satellite location in Gilbert, which not only allowed for increased student enrollment but also established a large, dedicated live sound room for advanced training. This commitment to state-of-the-art facilities and a focused curriculum culminates in remarkable alumni success, as evidenced by the astounding fact that in February 2016, 47 different alumni contributed to pieces nominated across 42 different Grammy categories, a testament to the tangible outcomes of a CRAS education.