On November 27, TONO celebrates its 95th anniversary. For almost a century, this community of composers, lyricists, songwriters and music publishers has strengthened Norwegian music.
/ 27/11/2023 / Kristian DugstadTONO was founded on November 27, 1928 and turns 95 today.
For the past century or so, TONO has managed the economic copyright for music creators and music publishers, ensuring that they get paid when their music is used.
– For 95 years, Norwegian composers, songwriters, lyricists and music publishers have shown the strength of standing together. TONO has given music rights holders an economic foundation to create and distribute all the diverse music that is created in Norway, and in many ways we represent the heart of Norwegian music life. Because without the opportunities to create new music for the creator, there will be silence in Norwegian music life, says Jørgen Karlstrøm, Chairman of the Board of TONO
At the end of 1929, TONO had 60 members and a turnover of just under 18,000 kroner.
Last year, gross revenues were over 864 million kroner, and TONO membership is almost a given for anyone who creates music in Norway.
In the mid-2000s, membership was around 15,000, and over the past 15 years, growth has accelerated enormously. Earlier this year, we passed 40,000.
– TONO has stood by Norwegian and international creators for 95 years. Together we have seen both challenges and new opportunities in the music industry, and the authorship revenues we have managed have seen impressive growth, says CEO, Karl Vestli.
When TONO was founded, the inaugural meeting took place at the office of lawyer Emil Stang at Øvre Slottsgate 12 in Oslo. Over the past century, we have had offices in Klingenberggata, Tøyenbekken and now in Møllergata.
As recently as last week, it was announced that TONO has purchased the building at Kongens Gate 12, just over 200 meters from the law firm in Øvre Slottsgate.
Thus, the organization will return to its birthplace.
– Now we are looking ahead, and will further develop TONO for the best for its members until the 100th anniversary in 5 years. Our ambition is to create a “Music House” with member facilities such as a music studio and event spaces. TONO’s new home will be completed well before 2028, and will be a worthy celebration of 100 years in the service of music, says Vestli.
