Tonic solfa, a teaching method for sight-singing, assigns a name to each note based on its relationship to other notes in the key, according to Wikipedia. This approach enhances music language skills and fosters genuine musical literacy, training individuals to recognize intervals and understand pitch relationships.
While many continue to explore the nuances of music theory, 47-year-old Tarusila Nakoronivalu has dedicated herself to mastering this art since she was 15. She recalls her experience in Year 11 at Yasawa High School, where music classes were led by Mr. Sosiceni. It was during this formative period that she learned the distinction between reading tonic solfa and simply singing by ear, motivated in part by her family’s musical background.
Nakoronivalu’s grandfather, Kamanieli Navakaba, gained recognition as one of the finest bass vocalists in their church choir. She fondly remembers how his voice guided others in singing bass parts, underscoring his professionalism and influence. Following in his footsteps, her father, Inoke Koronivalu, and mother, Litia Nakoronivalu, were similarly involved in their community choir, raising their children in a musical environment.
What set Nakoronivalu apart from her family was her ability to read tonic solfa, while they primarily learned hymns by ear. This changed when she absorbed the teachings from school and felt empowered to teach her family during the holidays. They would gather to practice hymns, starting with simpler songs before progressing to more complex ones.
Over her 30-plus years in music, Nakoronivalu has joined various choirs and even traveled to Australia with her choir members. Her journey began with the Nabukeru Church Choir in her village, where her school experience was invaluable. After moving to Lautoka, she sang with the Natabua Church Choir and Coronation Church before relocating to Suva to join the Kadavu Choir. This opportunity allowed her to travel across Fiji and visit many outer islands.
Her first overseas trip was to Australia, a milestone that surprised her as she reflected on her roots. Nakoronivalu emphasizes the importance of pursuing one’s talents wholeheartedly and sharing that knowledge with others. She appreciates the lessons learned from her childhood, where her family taught her to sing through hymns, and she strives to give back by sharing her insights with her community.
Nakoronivalu encourages school children to recognize their unique talents. She believes that while academic success is important, fulfilling one’s potential can lead to diverse avenues of growth and success, ultimately benefiting future generations. Currently residing in Nadonumai, she works as a babysitter while imparting her musical knowledge to fellow church members.