The iconic Nokia ringtone, known by millions around the globe, has a surprisingly classical origin. It traces back to a piece by the Spanish composer and guitarist Francisco Tárrega, titled Gran Vals
Francisco Tárrega (1852–1909) was a significant figure in classical guitar music, often regarded as the father of modern classical guitar technique. His compositions have influenced generations of guitarists, but one piece, in particular, has transcended the classical music world in an unexpected way.
In the early 1990s, engineers at Nokia were searching for a distinctive ringtone to include in their mobile phones. In particular they needed something they wouldn't have to pay royalties on, so in line with copyright laws, it needed to be something written by a composer who had died over 70 years ago.
Exactly how they settled on this particular fragment is unclear, but the final ringtone was shaped with the help of Thomas Dolby and was first heard in a Nokia 1011 advert in 1992.
