Tonic solfa is a teaching method for sight-singing that assigns names to notes based on their relationships within a musical key, enhancing music language skills and fostering music literacy according to Wikipedia. It trains individuals to recognize intervals and understand pitch relations.
While many people are still mastering the musical scale, 47-year-old Tarusila Nakoronivalu has been dedicated to this art since she was 15. “When I was in Year 11 at Yasawa High School, our music classes were taught by Mr. Sosiceni,” she recalls. “It was there that I learned how to read tonic solfa as opposed to just singing by ear. My family’s singing tradition inspired me to learn more about tonic solfa.”
Ms. Nakoronivalu’s grandfather, Kamanieli Navakaba, was a renowned bass vocalist in their church choir, something she fondly remembers. “I have always known my grandfather to be one of the best bass vocalists,” she said, noting how his voice would lead others in harmonies, and many would take their cues from him.
Her father, Inoke Koronivalu, and mother, Litia Nakoronivalu, also sang bass in the church choir in Yasawa, and they instilled a similar musical upbringing in their children. “We would have family devotions after dinner and practice hymns together, which made our days special.”
What sets Ms. Nakoronivalu apart is her ability to read tonic solfa, a skill her family members do not possess. “At home, we sang hymns by ear without understanding the notes or progressions. But once I learned tonic solfa in school, I felt confident enough to teach my family,” she explained.
During holidays, the family would gather to practice singing hymns, starting with simpler ones before tackling more complex pieces. Her 30-plus years of experience have seen her join various choirs and even travel to Australia with choir members. “The first choir I joined was the Nabukeru Church Choir in my village,” she said, sharing how her school education enabled her to practice and develop her passion for music further.
After moving to Lautoka, she joined the Natabua Church Choir and Coronation Church Choir before relocating to Suva to join the Kadavu Choir. Through this choir, she traveled extensively across Fiji, visiting places like Malolo Island, Labasa, and Kadavu.
Ms. Nakoronivalu’s first overseas trip took her to Australia, which she describes as surreal. “It’s incredible that someone from my village could travel abroad because of my love for singing. It shows that if you pursue what you’re good at with dedication, you may see wonderful blessings in your life,” she stated. She emphasizes the importance of sharing talents and passing knowledge to others.
“I hope children in schools recognize that they can utilize their talents, regardless of academic performance. Education is valuable, but there are many paths to success. Someday, you can share your knowledge with future generations,” she added.
Currently residing in Nadonumai, Ms. Nakoronivalu works as a babysitter while continuing to share her musical knowledge with church members.