Now in its 59th season, the Sawdust Art Festival has become a cornerstone of Southern California’s cultural scene, representing the ongoing continuity of the Laguna Beach art colony, which has existed for approximately 125 years. Sawdust ensures that local artists in Laguna Beach have a thriving presence to the public, and art remains a relevant aspect of the community in Laguna.
That spirit, combined with a lively festival atmosphere, has been significantly improved through a relationship with QSC, whose professional audio equipment now powers live performances on all three of the festival’s stages.
Long before deciding to utilize QSC equipment on its stages, the Festival had come to know QSC employee, Brad Zell, who had previously performed at the Sawdust Art Festival multiple times. According to Sawdust officials, his positive experiences and knowledge of the Sawdust were key factors in deciding to include QSC in this magical environment.
Traditionally, festival performers were required to provide their own sound systems, which often resulted in inconsistent audio quality, logistical challenges, and unnecessary stress for musicians.
When Tom Hartmann became the General Manager of the Sawdust in 2023, one of his first decisions was to invest more in the musical performance aspect of the festivals. Hartmann hired Jon Loomis, a veteran sound engineer who has toured with major acts to support sound and lighting and has assisted with audio needs at various organizations throughout Laguna, including the Sawdust and the Laguna Beach Cultural Arts Center, as well as faith-based organizations. Loomis immediately recommended QSC to enhance the festival’s sound environment.
“Without being too hyperbolic, our purchases of QSC equipment have been profound,” said Hartmann. “Musicians no longer need to bring their own PA systems to play, and audiences now enjoy a consistent, professional-level sound that enhances the entire experience.”
The first QSC system was installed at the Waterfall Deck stage in late 2023, featuring K12.2 and K10.2 powered loudspeakers, KS112 powered subwoofers, and a TouchMix-30 Pro digital mixer. Positive feedback from performers and guests was immediate, leading the festival to expand its investment. By summer 2024, both the Saloon and Cove stages were equipped with QSC K12.2 powered loudspeakers, CP8 compact powered loudspeakers, and TouchMix-16 digital mixers.
Each stage has its own distinctive vibe: the Waterfall Deck overlooks ponds and waterfalls, the Saloon stage sits beneath a grove of trees in a western-inspired setting, and the Cove stage offers a beachside feel, complete with sand and coastal cuisine. With QSC systems standard across all three, audiences enjoy a seamless listening experience, no matter the genre.
“The music is a large reason why people come time and again,” Hartmann said. “Our summer festival runs 66 days, our Winter Fantasy festival another 15, and we host live music every single day across three stages. That’s about 400 performance slots a year. Having QSC equipment ensures every act—from reggae-rock and jazz to Celtic and folk—sounds its best.”
The QSC TouchMix digital mixers have proven particularly valuable. Configured with wireless control via iPads, they enable Loomis to adjust levels in real-time across the festival grounds. Presets can also be saved for returning acts, streamlining setup and ensuring consistency. “Not only do guests enjoy the improved quality, but the musical artists are also so appreciative of our efforts,” Hartmann said.
The festival’s investment in QSC goes beyond performances. Equipment is also used for board and member meetings, with additional purchases planned to further enhance flexibility, including a KC12 column loudspeaker for quick setups. “The QSC team has been a pleasure to work with from the get-go,” Hartmann added. “They are professionals to the nth degree, and we couldn’t be happier to have found such a supportive company.”
According to Hartmann, the improved sound is central to the Sawdust’s mission: “First and foremost, the Sawdust Art Festival is an art festival—but the word ‘festival’ is a defining element of the soul of ‘The Dust.’ For many in the community, the Sawdust is the heartbeat of Laguna.”
As the Sawdust Art Festival looks toward the future, the relationship with QSC ensures that its tradition of community, creativity, and connection will continue to resonate—loud, clear, and unforgettable.
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