Pu Qalo, known for her deep connection to music, has dedicated her life to the art of hymn composition and choir conducting within the Methodist Church. At 77 years old, her journey began at the age of six when she first discovered her love for music at Nabua Primary School in Suva, Fiji. Growing up in a less developed Suva during the 1940s, Qalo moved there from Ono-i-Lau with her family, where she would eventually find her calling in music.
Reflecting on her early experiences, she remembers how her primary school teacher, Tulia Koroi, instilled in her and her classmates the significance of music. Qalo emphasizes the importance of correct pronunciation in singing, noting her sorrow when she hears singers mispronounce words on the radio. She believes that accurate pronunciation is essential for any performance, no matter the language.
Qalo has composed and adapted numerous hymns for her congregation, attributing her creative process to her relationship with God. She strives to ensure that any changes she makes to the hymns are guided by prayer, allowing her artistic journey to be a collaborative effort with her faith. Her teachings have reached far beyond local borders, connecting her to Methodist Church members around the world through video calls where she educates them on musical concepts, including melody and harmony.
Her methodology involves more than just musical training; she emphasizes the need for careful translation of hymns into different languages, cautioning against literal translations that could lose the song’s essence. Instead, she aims to capture the mood of the composer by understanding the emotions behind the lyrics.
Alongside her professional role, Qalo has positively influenced the lives of many young musicians, with her household often serving as a nurturing environment for aspiring singers. She has raised four children and has played a significant role in the lives of many others who have lived with her, all united by a shared passion for music.
Qalo feels grateful to have a supportive network, with her “children” helping her during the demanding church conference periods. This sense of community reflects the deep bonds that her love for music has created, showing how that same passion can inspire others and reinforce connections.
As Pu Qalo continues her musical journey, her commitment to teaching and her belief in the transformative power of music remain evident. Her story resonates with many, illustrating that through dedication and faith, one can enrich the lives of others while nurturing their own talents. The legacy she is building, coupled with her unwavering faith, serves as an inspiration for future generations, proving that music is indeed a powerful blessing from God.
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