History

The Beginning 

The music school was founded in 1991 by Sigríður Árnadóttir, a music educator and the school’s principal, and Wilma Young, a violin teacher. Wilma maintained a strong folk music group and taught violin for many years but had to retire due to illness and passed away in 2022. Sigríður Árnadóttir was the principal and led the school’s thriving program from its inception until 2023. Edda Austmann then took over as principal. 

Name Change

The school’s operations had undergone significant changes, and it expanded into more neighborhoods beyond Grafarvogur, such as Grafarholt, Úlfarsárdalur, Háaleiti, Bústaðir and Árbær. The name of the school, Grafarvogur Music School ended up being misleading for students so a name change was considered. What all the students have in common is that they live in Reykjavík, as the school operates based on a service agreement with the City of Reykjavík. 

About Us

Tónskólinn í Reykjavík receives financial contributions from Reykjavik City through a service agreement. The school offers a variety of music education in the form of group or private lessons. The school has always adhered to the core curriculum for music schools and has graduated a large number of students at the basic, intermediate and advanced levels. Students can pursue their studies in their local area. The school’s primary location is in Hverafold next to Foldaskóli, but lessons are also held in several grade schools, Grafarvogskirkja, and Bústaðakirkja. 

The main purpose of the school is to promote students’ ability to create and perform music, as well as to listen and enjoy. The school prepares students for independent music practice as well as further studies in music and related subjects at the secondary and university levels. The school is staffed by well-educated and ambitious teachers who embrace personalized instruction. The school provides students with opportunities to perform at concerts and other events. 

More

The main objective of Tónskólinn í Reykjavík is to provide general music education, enhance children’s awareness and knowledge of music, and increase overall music participation. The school’s goals are pursued through: 

• Education in as many areas of music as circumstances allow at any given time
• Providing diverse conditions for students to develop their musical abilities and creativity
• Emphasizing the social value of music practice through various forms of ensemble playing
• Providing students with opportunities to perform as often as possible, both within and outside the school
• Preparing students for further studies in music

The core curriculum states that music schools play a diverse role in society. They should promote a vibrant music life while also working towards enhancing the individual’s skills, knowledge, and development. The school must take into account the different interests, abilities, and developmental stages of its students. Teaching methods and topics therefore need to be diverse, and flexibility in school operations is essential.

In addition to music theory and preparatory studies, a diverse range of instrumental studies is offered, including piano, guitar, voice, violin, viola, cello, flute, and accordion. Students who complete preparatory studies at the school generally have priority for instrumental studies.

Great emphasis is placed on student collaboration, and various ensembles and bands have been established at the school. Recitals have been actively held since the school’s founding, and students have always been encouraged to take an active role in performing music for audiences. The school collaborates actively with preschools and grade schools, as well as other music schools, and participates in various celebrations and events.