tónskáld

A tónskáld, or "tone poet," is a traditional Icelandic term for a composer or musician who specializes in creating melodies and musical arrangements for Icelandic folk songs, particularly those in the traditional *rímur* (epic verse) style. The role of the tónskáld blends elements of both composer and performer, as they often write music that complements the poetic and narrative structure of Icelandic sagas and ballads.

The practice of composing for *rímur* dates back to the 19th century, when Icelandic national identity and cultural revival movements sought to preserve and reinterpret its rich oral tradition. Composers like Jón Sigurðsson and later figures such as Sigfús Blöndal and Einar Ágúst Víðisson played key roles in developing the musical language of *rímur*, blending Icelandic folk influences with classical and romantic European styles. Their work often featured haunting melodies, modal scales, and rhythmic patterns that evoked the epic tone of the original verse.

Today, the term *tónskáld* is less formally defined but still used to describe musicians who contribute original music to Icelandic folk or traditional genres. Modern tónskáld may work in contemporary folk, neo-folk, or experimental music, adapting traditional structures to new contexts. Their compositions often emphasize emotional depth, storytelling, and a connection to Iceland’s cultural heritage, making them an important link between past and present musical traditions.