The Sound of Mallorca
In the bustling city of Palma, a one-of-a-kind music studio has emerged as a vibrant creative hub, drawing artists from across the globe. The mastermind behind this dynamic space is Swedish music producer Fredrik Thomander, who, after over a decade of living on the island, has transformed his vision into a thriving center for music and artistic expression in Mallorca.
From Sweden to Mallorca
Fredrik’s journey to Mallorca wasn’t initially about work. “I moved to Mallorca ten years ago with my family for a good life, not to work myself down,” he recalls. However, the island’s charm and the lack of professional music studios in Palma led him to reconsider his plans. Encouraged by a friend Johan Lundgren, Fredrik saw the potential in creating a world-class studio on the island.
In 2016, Fredrik and Johan found the perfect property in Son Espanyolet. What started as a potential investment quickly turned into a full-fledged project. “Things happened pretty fast, and we just bought the property together,” he says. Over the next two and a half years, with the help of local builders, UK acoustic engineers, and interior decorators, the studio began to take shape. In November 2017, the doors of the studio finally opened, marking the beginning of a new chapter for Fredrik and the creative community in Mallorca.
A Creative Hub for Global Talent
The studio quickly became a magnet for talent, attracting both international artists and local musicians. “Our customers started with my old clients—record companies, artists, management, publishers from mostly northern Europe, but also some Americans and Asians,” Fredrik explains. Over time, word spread, and the studio began to attract a more diverse clientele, including local producers, artists, and even actors working on film post-production.
One of the studio’s unique offerings is its role in film production. “We started doing voiceover and ADR for movies, TV, and video games,” Fredrik says. This aspect of the business has grown significantly, adding another dimension to the studio’s services. “It’s not only music, even though we are a music studio. We really love it.”
Building a Community Through Music
Fredrik’s studio is more than just a place to record music—it’s a community hub. The studio hosts events like the Palma Music Club, where legendary albums and artists are celebrated. “We started with Fleetwood Mac’s ‘Rumours,’ and we’ve since done sessions on Bob Marley, Bruce Springsteen, and Amy Winehouse,” Fredrik explains. These events bring together music lovers of all ages, offering a unique experience that blends storytelling, live performances, and deep dives into classic albums.
The studio also hosts rooftop concerts, providing a platform for artists to showcase their work in an intimate setting. “It’s a way for Palma to see fantastic artists” Fredrik explains. These concerts have been well-received by both the local community and the studio’s neighbors. “They love it. We’ve never had a complaint,” he says with a smile.
The Changing Face of Mallorca
Having lived on the island for over a decade, Fredrik has witnessed significant changes in Mallorca. “There’s a lot more traffic now, prices are higher, and there are more people,” he observes. While these changes bring challenges, such as rising living costs, Fredrik remains optimistic about the island’s future. “I think the culture and people of Mallorca are very aware and protective of their heritage,” he says, expressing hope that the island’s unique character will endure despite the pressures of modernization.
Fredrik also notes the growing creative scene on the island, driven in part by the rise of remote work. “When I came 10 years ago, there were very few people in my type of work living here. Now we get so many digital nomads, film people, and others coming in,” he says. This influx of creative talent has made Mallorca an increasingly attractive destination for artists and professionals seeking both inspiration and a better quality of life.
Looking Ahead: Balancing Growth and Serenity
As Fredrik reflects on his journey, he is content with the balance he has found between work and life on the island. “I’ve found the balance between not having to travel so much and being creative here,” he says. While he continues to have plans for the future — such as expanding into the film and video game industries— Fredrik is also focused on enjoying the present. “I’m in a phase where I can rest in the feeling that we are over a threshold and that we enjoy this.”
Fredrik’s studio stands as a testament to what can be achieved when vision meets opportunity. In just a few years, he has created a space that not only produces music but also fosters a sense of community and creativity on the island. As Mallorca continues to evolve, Fredrik’s studio will undoubtedly remain a cornerstone of the island’s cultural landscape, bringing together artists, musicians, and creators from all corners of the globe.
Text by Dasha Bikmansurova
