LIPA’s Jon Thornton honoured by music industry
Friday 17 April 2026
Jon Thornton, who created LIPA’s Sound Technology programme, has received the Special Recognition Award from the Music Producers Guild (MPG).
The award is given in appreciation of a person’s contribution to the music industry and is chosen by the MPG Awards committee.
Jon says he was incredibly flattered by the honour. “I was absolutely gobsmacked when I was told. But this isn’t about me – it’s about the team. It’s about the institution, the students, the graduates and the staff. That’s where the success truly lies, and that’s what we’re celebrating.”
Joining LIPA before its opening in 1996, Jon developed the Sound Technology course in consultation with the industry and, with his team, has ensured it has evolved. “The industry today is completely different to what it was 30 years ago. What people can create in their bedrooms with relatively inexpensive setups is astonishing.
“But what you can’t replicate so easily is how to use that knowledge and skill effectively with others. And that’s something our students and graduates do exceptionally well.”
The Music Producers Guild is run and supported by producers, mixers, recording engineers, re-mixers and programmers who are passionate about all aspects of making and recording music. The MPG Awards celebrate the best of UK music production talent and over its 18 years LIPA graduates have regularly been among its nominees and winners.
Stepping down from his role as Head of Sound Technology in February, Jon continues to lecture and will remain as Director of the School of Creative Technologies, Design and Enterprise until July.
LIPA’s Principal and CEO, Sean McNamara paid tribute: “Jon’s more than a teacher, he’s more than a leader. He is someone who has committed his career to the development and the learning of others.
“As a legacy that’s something that is remarkable and entirely captures what makes Jon just a very, very special person.”
Steph Marziano, who graduated from Sound Technology in 2013 was also a winner, picking up the Writer-Producer of the Year award. Steph's recent credits include co-writer and co-producer on Hayley Williams' Parachute.
Top image of Jon at the MPG Awards by Gabriel Bush
