tínar

Tónar is the Icelandic word for tones or sounds, the plural of tónn. In Icelandic, it is used in music theory and everyday language to refer to pitch, timbre, or a series of musical notes. The term can describe the overall quality of sound and is closely linked to music education and audio technology.

Tónar is also the name of a Reykjavík-based independent record label and record shop established in the 1990s. The store became a notable venue and cultural hub in Iceland’s music scene, promoting Icelandic artists and serving as a point of contact with international audiences. The label and shop have released and distributed a range of music, including rock, electronic, and experimental releases, contributing to the global exposure of Icelandic music.

In contemporary usage, tónar appears in contexts such as sound design and acoustics, reflecting its root meaning of tones and sounds. The word is an integral part of Icelandic musical vocabulary and cultural identity, with the proper noun Tónar representing a recognizable institution within Reykjavík’s music ecosystem.