Magnus Thor Magnusson
About
I am an Icelandic songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and performer with over 30 years of experience in creating and playing music. I have written and performed with several bands, including KRAMPAR and Morgan Kane, and many of my songs have been played on Icelandic national radio. My single “Death is not scary, dying is” stayed on the radio for about six months and reached #4 on the national charts.
Throughout my career, I have taken part in numerous recording and production projects, performing as a guitarist, bassist, drummer, and vocalist. I studied the trumpet for six years in my youth and later continued to develop my musical education through years of songwriting, studio work, and live performance.
I have taught music and songwriting both from my home studio and in small group settings, helping students find their own creative voice. My teaching style is intuitive and experience-based — focusing more on inspiration, creativity, and emotional connection than on strict theory. I aim to help every student express themselves honestly and enjoy the process of making music, no matter their skill level or background.
In addition to my performing and teaching, I am also the author of the book “You Don’t Play Music; Music Plays You”, available on Amazon Kindle. In it, I share my philosophy and methods for songwriting, developed through decades of experience as an independent musician.
I now offer online lessons via Zoom, where I guide students in songwriting, lyrics, guitar, bass, and performance — always with an emphasis on creativity and confidence.
Teaching Style
My lessons focus on songwriting and lyric development. I work with students who want to improve their songs, find their own voice, and express emotions honestly through words and music. I listen carefully to their material and help refine structure, flow, and meaning in a supportive and creative way. If I hear that a song already stands strong on its own, I never try to force unnecessary changes — my goal is to strengthen the artist’s vision, not replace it.
Curriculum
Students bring their own songs or lyrics, and we explore together how to enhance melodies, rhythm, and emotional connection. I don’t focus on theory or technique — my approach is based on intuition, creativity, and over 30 years of real songwriting experience. Each lesson is about understanding the song’s core feeling and helping the student express it clearly and confidently.
Credentials & Affiliations
I am a professional Icelandic songwriter and multi-instrumentalist with over two decades of experience writing, recording, and performing music.
My work has appeared on Icelandic radio with several charting singles through my projects Morgan Kane and KRAMPAR.
I have extensive experience mentoring and collaborating with other musicians, helping them develop lyrics, melody, and confidence in their songwriting.
I teach from real-world experience — not just theory — guiding students to discover their own authentic creative voice.