With Co. Louth currently producing some of the most thrilling, genre-transcending music in the country, it’s no surprise that Dundalk Institute of Technology’s Department of Creative Arts, Media and Music has become a hotspot for emerging talent.

A thriving creative community led by industry experts, the department’s vibrant mix of courses are designed to provide the next generation of arts, media and music professionals with the essential tools for a successful career in the creative industries.

Fionn O’Brien, also known as F.O.B., graduated from DkIT’s BA in Audio and Music Production course with a First Class Honours in 2018, and has gone on to become a remarkable force in Irish music. Having worked with Hot Press favourites like Matthew Nolan, Uppbeat and Nixer, the producer and composer – who hails from Laytown, Co. Louth – has clocked up over 28 million streams on Spotify alone.

Fionn, who was drawn to music from a young age, instantly fell in love with the four-year course, and its state-of-the-art studios and facilities.

“During my time in DkIT, my love of music quickly evolved into a journey of discovering the power of sound, recording, and producing,” he recalls. “Our learning was hands-on, breaking down the complexities of mixing consoles and recording equipment.

“Collaborating with classmates and artists further enriched the learning experience, fostering an environment of practical learning and creativity,” he continues. “I genuinely credit the lecturing staff in DkIT as playing an essential role in my theoretical and practical education, treating students as equals and constantly evolving alongside them.”

Today, Fionn feels like he’s living his “best life, professionally and creatively” – producing radio content for LMFM, and producing music and film scores from his home studio. Most recently, he joined forces with Matthew Nolan – who he began his journey in DkIT alongside – to produce the hugely popular Irish singer’s latest single, ‘Julia’.

As Fionn points out, as a young student, it’s crucial “to follow one’s interests and passions without unnecessary pressure.”

“The key lies in enjoying the process and striving to excel in whatever path you choose, especially in a field as diverse as music and audio production.”

• For more information, see dkit.ie. Follow Fionn O’Brien on social media at @fob_beats, or visit fobmusic.com