Tonic solfa is a teaching method used to help students learn sight-singing, assigning names to notes based on their relationships within a key. This technique promotes music literacy, enhances listening skills for recognizing intervals, and understanding pitch relationships.
At 47 years old, Tarusila Nakoronivalu has dedicated herself to mastering tonic solfa since she was 15. Her journey began in Year 11 at Yasawa High School, where Mr. Sosiceni taught music classes. It was there that she learned to read tonic solfa, which stood in contrast to merely singing by ear. Her family’s musical background significantly inspired her interest, as they had a tradition of singing together.
Ms. Nakoronivalu recalls her grandfather, Kamanieli Navakaba, who was well-known as a bassist in their church choir. She was always impressed by his powerful voice that guided other singers. Following in his footsteps, her father, Inoke Koronivalu, and her mother, Litia Nakoronivalu, were also bass singers in their church choir in Yasawa. They instilled a love of music in their children through evening devotions and hymn practice.
Unlike her family, Ms. Nakoronivalu could read tonic solfa, allowing her to teach her family the hymns they sang by ear. This confidence grew as she taught them during family gatherings, leading to a deeper understanding of music.
Over her 30 years of experience, she has joined several choirs and performed abroad, including her first trip to Australia. Her initial choir experience was with Nabukeru Church Choir in her village. Later, she participated in choirs in Lautoka and Suva, including the Natabua Church Choir and the Kadavu Choir, which took her to various locations across Fiji.
Reflecting on her journey, Ms. Nakoronivalu emphasizes the importance of pursuing one’s passions and sharing knowledge with others. She believes that education is valuable, but talent can lead to success in various forms. Currently residing in Nadonumai, she works as a babysitter and continues to share her musical expertise with her church community.
Ms. Nakoronivalu hopes that children recognize their talents and find ways to grow, regardless of academic performance, so they can eventually pass on their knowledge to future generations.