Erin Tonkon

Erin Tonkon is a producer, engineer, mixer, and educator. She is a proud graduate of The Clive Davis Institute of Recorded Music at the Tisch School of the Arts at NYU where she earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts. Erin is an internationally recognized producer and part of the Grammy-award winning team for David Bowie’s “Blackstar”.

Growing up in San Diego, Erin learned engineering as a teen and worked at local radio stations and recording studios prior to moving to New York to attend The Clive Davis Institute of Recorded Music at NYU. During her time studying at NYU, Erin began a mentorship under legendary producer Tony Visconti, and after a month of mentorship, she was hired as Visconti's full-time engineer and production assistant. Her first day on the job was also her first day working with one of her personal heroes—David Bowie. Erin’s contribution to the Bowie discography includes engineering, mixing, and vocal performance on “Blackstar, as well as “The Next Day (Extra)”, “Nothing Has Changed”, “No Plan (EP)”, and “Lazarus (Original New York Cast Recording).” Erin’s work spans genres and generations from punk icons Richard Hell and The Damned, to jazz legend Esperanza Spalding, indie rock bands such as Gustaf, Lady Lamb and Cafuné, fashion muse Daphne Guinness and pop powerhouse Grace Ives. She was also a featured producer on Audible’s hit podcast “Breakthrough”, executive produced by The Chainsmokers and hosted by Daveed Diggs with judges Sara Bareilles and Kelly Rowland.

Prior to accepting a professorship at NYU, Erin taught at The New School and Manhattan School of Music.  She has been featured in publications such as “Forbes” and “Playback” and has traveled the world speaking at conventions and music festivals about her expertise in the music industry and championing the need for more diversity and inclusion in recording studios. She is overjoyed to be returning to her alma mater to educate the next generation of engineers and producers.