Photo: Magnus Berg
With support from the TONO grant, Marius Lien has recorded his next album – and has strengthened his faith in the music he makes.
/ 29/04/2025 / Kristian DugstadMarius Lien has been interested in music since childhood, inspired by his father's guitar playing. His interest quickly developed into a focused commitment to his own songwriting and artistic career.
In 2024, the TONO grant became an important help in realizing the next album.
– I have composed twelve new songs and recorded the entire album. The grant made it possible to complete the project – both financially and mentally. It gives extra motivation to know that someone believes in what you are doing, he says.
Developing new music projects requires time, money and partners. For an independent artist and songwriter like Marius Lien, a grant is an important contribution to being able to fully focus on new projects.
“It costs money to make music, and income as a musician can vary. The scholarship gave me greater artistic freedom and the opportunity to pursue my own ideas,” he says.
Now he looks forward to taking the new songs onto the stage, together with a band that has found a new sound.
– We're going to practice the material and get out there and play. I hope the music can reach more people and open new doors for us.
For Lien, music has been a natural part of his life for as long as he can remember. Creating his own songs gives him a drive that few other things can match.
– Starting with nothing and ending up with finished songs together with talented musicians is an incredibly rewarding process. Hearing the result in the end gives a great sense of satisfaction.
The TONO grant is not only about financial support, but also about providing recognition and promoting new projects.
– When you get a scholarship, you feel that someone believes in what you are doing. It means a lot for motivation, and makes it possible to focus on music now – not in a year, he says.
Remember: The application deadline for TONO scholarships 2025 is Tuesday, April 29th at 3:00 PM!