Historic Discovery Brings New Life to Reykjavík's Music Scene
Reykjavík city staff have unearthed a long-forgotten music fund, established more than a century ago, which will now inject ISK 11 million into the city's vibrant live music scene. The fund, known as the Guðjón Sigurðsson Music Fund, was discovered during a routine review of dormant city-managed funds and is set to fulfill its founder's original philanthropic vision. The announcement was made on October 8, 2025.
The Legacy of Guðjón Sigurðsson
The fund was established by Guðjón Sigurðsson, a prominent master watchmaker, merchant, and ardent supporter of Reykjavík's cultural life. Sigurðsson, who tragically died in the city's Great Fire of 1915, had set aside his fortune to create a fund intended to finance public concerts and support a small orchestra performing several nights a week. His will, dated July 14, 1908, outlined the fund's purpose: to ensure Reykjavík residents had access to quality music, either free of charge or at a modest cost.
Initially, Sigurðsson's fortune amounted to 67,000 krónur. By 1940, when the fund was formally registered, it had grown to 189,000 krónur. However, historical records indicate that no grants were ever issued from the fund, with historians suggesting that the turmoil of the Second World War and Iceland's occupation likely stalled its launch.
Integration and Future Impact
City officials have now arranged for the Guðjón Sigurðsson Music Fund to be merged into the existing Reykjavík Music Fund, a modern grant scheme dedicated to supporting the local music scene. This transfer received official approval from the County Commissioner of North West Iceland. The ISK 11 million contribution will specifically bolster the Music Fund's Infrastructure and Development division.
In alignment with Sigurðsson's original intentions, the newly allocated funds will place a special emphasis on:
- Supporting public concerts through Reykjavík venues and music festivals.
- Directing one-quarter of the contribution towards children's music projects.
This timely discovery is expected to significantly enhance cultural offerings in the capital, providing crucial support for artists and ensuring broader access to music for the community, more than a century after its inception.
5 Comments
Raphael
Are there no more pressing issues than music funds? Get priorities straight.
Donatello
It's wonderful to see Sigurðsson's philanthropic vision finally realized, especially with the focus on children's music. However, it's a shame it took over a century to unearth, raising questions about oversight of such dormant funds.
Rotfront
Fantastic news for Reykjavík's culture! What a brilliant legacy.
Karamba
Just another city fund, probably mismanaged. I'm skeptical.
Habibi
While the injection of ISK 11 million is a positive boost for the local music scene, one might wonder if the fund could have grown significantly more if actively managed over the decades. Still, any support for the arts is welcome.