Let’s talk about the Nokia ringtone – the one that stands out among all other phone tunes and still brings back memories in 2023. Surprisingly, its roots go back way before the first mobile phone was even invented. The familiar note run in the Nokia ringtone comes from a piece of music called “Gran Vals,” meaning “Great Waltz.” This musical gem was composed by Spanish classical guitarist Francisco Tárrega in 1902, a long time before Nokia’s first mobile, the Mobira Cityman 900, made its debut in 1987.
Classical guitarist Alexandra Whittingham showcases the iconic run in a video, emphasizing its historical significance. “I won’t rest until this piece gets the recognition it deserves,” she expresses. The journey of Gran Vals to becoming the Nokia ringtone began in 1994 when it was first included as “Ringtone Type 7” in the Nokia 2110. In 1997, it was renamed “Grande Valse” as a nod to its original title. However, in 1998, due to its strong association with Nokia, it was officially named “Nokia Tune,” solidifying its position as the flagship ringtone.
Over the years, various versions of the Nokia ringtone have emerged. Ian Livingstone crafted the first polyphonic MIDI rendition in 2001. In 2008, a guitar-based version was introduced with the Nokia N78, reflecting the musical trends of the time. Other notable versions include a slow piano rendition by Ryuichi Sakamoto for the Nokia 880 and a slow guitar version by Brian Eno for the Nokia 880 Sirocco Edition.
While Nokia’s popularity has waned with the rise of iPhones and Samsung models, the classic Nokia ringtone remains a distinctive sound. The next time you hear it, take a moment to appreciate the genius behind the piece, Francisco Tárrega.
