Breaking into the music and live production industry takes more than talent; it takes technical skill, hands-on experience, and the right connections. For Fernanda Mardones, also known as DJ Ferny, enrolling in the Recording Arts and Show Production program at F.I.R.S.T. Institute was the turning point that transformed her passion into a professional career.
From working behind the scenes at a professional theater to building a thriving DJ presence in Orlando, Fernanda’s journey shows how formal audio education, real-world training, and intentional networking can open doors in the entertainment industry.
Choosing the Next Step: Why Fernanda Enrolled in Recording Arts
Before attending F.I.R.S.T. Institute, Fernanda already had a strong musical foundation. She was self-taught, had learned multiple instruments as a child, and had begun DJing on her own. But she knew that to move forward professionally, she needed more than raw talent.
“I was ready to take the next step in my career,” Fernanda explains. “I wanted to be professional. I wanted my diploma.”
While researching audio schools online, Fernanda discovered F.I.R.S.T. Institute and immediately felt aligned with the program’s focus. The curriculum covered everything she was passionate about—music production, audio engineering, microphones, live sound, and behind-the-scenes production for film and theater.
That combination of creative and technical training made her decision clear.
A Hands-On Recording Arts Education That Leads to Jobs
One of the biggest advantages of the Recording Arts and Show Production program is its emphasis on hands-on learning. Students don’t just study theory; they actively work with industry-standard equipment, real production workflows, and live environments that mirror professional settings.
For Fernanda, that hands-on experience paid off immediately.
“My experience after graduating was excellent,” she says. “I was very lucky to be referred by an instructor here.”
Thanks to those instructor connections, Fernanda had a job lined up the day after her program ended at the Orlando Shakespeare Theater.
Working as an A2 Monitoring Engineer in Professional Theater
Fernanda’s first role after graduation was as an A2 monitoring engineer, a critical position in live theater sound production.
In this role, she was responsible for:
- Setting up, breaking down, and charging lavalier microphones
- Managing theater-specific wireless mic packs
- Monitoring over 20 actors’ microphones during live performances
- Quickly troubleshooting issues like mic pops, rubbing, or interference in real time
“It’s a very hands-on job,” Fernanda explains. “Critical listening all day long.”
This experience sharpened her technical audio skills, attention to detail, and ability to perform under pressure—skills that translate directly into other areas of live sound and DJ performance.
Building a DJ Career in Orlando
While working in the theater, Fernanda continued to grow her career as a DJ. She originally began DJing around 2020, during the pandemic, using a small controller and teaching herself the basics. After enrolling at F.I.R.S.T. Institute, her skills—and confidence—expanded rapidly.
Rather than waiting for opportunities to come to her, Fernanda immersed herself in the local music scene.
“I started going to events, being at the right place at the right time, talking to the right people,” she says.
She began by DJing house parties for friends; unpaid, low-pressure gigs that helped her build experience. Over time, word spread, and those early sets led to bigger opportunities.
Eventually, Fernanda landed a weekly Friday residency in Orlando, along with guest DJ spots like Daylight Orlando and other locations throughout the city.
Creating DJ Content and Growing an Online Presence
In addition to live performances, Fernanda uses digital platforms to showcase her sound and expand her audience. On her YouTube channel, she releases long-format DJ mixes ranging from 10 to 45 minutes, each centered around a specific genre.
Her creative process is intentional and musical.
“I’ll start with a genre—like Afro House—and then build the energy by increasing the BPM and seeing where it takes me.”
This approach reflects the musical training she gained through her education and real-world experience, blending technical precision with creative flow.
Why Private Events and MC Work Matter
While club residencies are exciting, Fernanda also finds deep fulfillment in DJing and MCing private events such as weddings and special celebrations.
“It’s not casual,” she explains. “You’re working for someone’s extremely memorable moment.”
Private events require advanced planning, crowd reading, and emotional awareness—knowing when to keep things subtle and when to bring everyone to the dance floor. That responsibility, Fernanda says, makes the work especially meaningful.
Advice for Aspiring DJs: Start Smart and Build Community
For anyone considering DJing or entering the audio industry, Fernanda offers practical, experience-driven advice.
Her top tips for day-one DJs include:
- Don’t overspend on equipment. Entry-level controllers are more than enough to start.
- Learn before you invest. Gear is just a tool—you are the performance.
- Network early. Create a business card, attend events, and introduce yourself.
- Focus on giving first. Ask what you can do for others instead of what they can do for you.
- Build community. Relationships lead to opportunities.
This mindset mirrors the collaborative nature of the entertainment industry and reflects what students learn through hands-on education at F.I.R.S.T. Institute.
Why Fernanda Recommends F.I.R.S.T. Institute
Looking back, Fernanda credits her success to applying herself fully during her time in the Recording Arts and Show Production program.
“I made so many good connections here,” she says. “I really tried hard, and I got so many instructors to refer me.”
One of her most meaningful moments was performing at F.I.R.S.T. Institute on her final day—a full-circle experience that symbolized how far she had come.
“If you’re considering coming to F.I.R.S.T., just do it,” Fernanda says. “You’re never wrong investing in your education.”
She emphasizes that the program teaches far more than students expect—from how music is produced to how audio supports film, theater, and live events behind the scenes.
Follow DJ Ferny
Fernanda continues to grow her career as a DJ, audio professional, and creative entrepreneur. You can follow her journey and explore her mixes online:
Her story is proof that with the right education, dedication, and community, a passion for music can become a sustainable, professional career.
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