Meet Gino Brown, a rising star in the world of music and one of F.I.R.S.T. Institute’s proud Recording Arts & Show Production (RASP) graduates. At F.I.R.S.T., our mission is not just to provide education—it’s to nurture talent, passion, and determination, creating success stories like Gino’s. Recently nominated for Best Maine Artist, Gino’s story is one of perseverance, creativity, and a profound love for music.
Turning Creativity into an Audio Engineering Career
When we asked Gino how it feels to be nominated for Best Maine Artist, his answer was heartfelt and humble. “For me, music has always been the way I coped with things. If I can help someone else cope with their feelings through a song I’ve created, that is the perfect reward. Being nominated feels like icing on the cake because I already feel awarded when I make music.”
This deeply personal connection to music is what drives Gino. It’s a passion that’s highly evident in every chord, lyric, and beat of his work. For Gino, music isn’t just a career—it’s a mission to connect with others and provide healing through his art.
From Aspiring Artist to Professional
Gino credits much of his growth to the training he received at F.I.R.S.T. Institute. “I feel more like a professional now than I did before. Everything I learned, I’m applying to my music career. The creativity, the techniques, and the tips from my instructors—they’re all part of what I do now.”
At F.I.R.S.T., students aren’t just learning the basics of recording arts—they’re mastering them through hands-on experience guided by industry professionals. With superior technology, expert instructors, and a curriculum designed for the real world, our programs ensure students like Gino are prepared to take their skills to the next level.
Gino’s approach is a perfect example. Whether it’s trying out a new technique or recalling specific lessons from his classes, he applies what he’s learned to elevate his craft. This is the essence of what F.I.R.S.T. Institute offers—a bridge from passion to professionalism.
What Inspired Gino’s Journey?
Gino’s love for music started early, but he knew he needed the right environment to turn his dreams into reality. “I always knew I wanted to go to college for music,” he says. “When I came across F.I.R.S.T. Institute, I knew it was the right fit. I applied and started classes a few months later.”
Choosing F.I.R.S.T. over the self-taught route was a conscious decision for Gino. He explained, “I felt like I had done as much as I could being self-taught. I wanted to add that professionalism to my craft, something that could take me above and beyond others who were on the same level.”
And it wasn’t just about technical skills. Each instructor impacted Gino’s growth in unique ways, providing him with the knowledge and encouragement he needed. “Every instructor taught me something new and gave me essential pieces of information to add to what I was already doing,” he shared.
Milestones and Achievements
Gino’s hard work is already paying off. Recently, he released a music video that has now hit 25,000 streams on YouTube—a growing accomplishment that reflects his talent and perseverance. “When I saw that number, I knew I had to keep pushing forward,” he says.
Whether on YouTube, Spotify, or iTunes, Gino’s music (under the name “Sim Lakia”) resonates with audiences, and his reach doesn’t stop there. “For social media, you can find me under @TheRealSimLakia on most platforms,” he adds.
This sense of momentum, accomplishment, and drive is exactly what we love to see in our graduates. Gino is not only showcasing the skills he honed at F.I.R.S.T. but also carving his place in the music industry.
What’s Next for Gino?
Looking ahead, the future is bright for Gino Brown. With graduation just around the corner and the Best Maine Artist awards shortly after, there’s no doubt that this is only the beginning of his incredible career.
When asked about upcoming projects, his response spoke volumes about his dedication. “I’m focused on keeping the energy going—releasing more music, more videos, and refining my craft.”
Why F.I.R.S.T. Institute?
Gino’s story is just one of many that highlight why F.I.R.S.T. Institute is not just a school but a launchpad for success. Our Recording Arts & Show Production program provides students with everything they need to hit the ground running. From expert instructors to hands-on training, every aspect of our program is designed to prepare students for the fast-paced, competitive music industry.
Are you ready to take that next step in your career? Whether you’re dreaming of becoming a recording artist, sound engineer, or producer, F.I.R.S.T. Institute can help turn your passion into a profession. Explore our programs and see how we’re transforming the future of the recording arts.