Nukunonu Music and the Evolution of Tokelauan Fatele
Nukunonu, one of the three islands comprising Tokelau—alongside Atafu and Fakaofo—possesses a rich musical heritage shaped by both indigenous traditions and external influences. The island's sonic landscape has evolved through a process of acculturation, blending imported styles with local customs to create a unique cultural identity.
The Evolution of Fatele
The primary musical and dance form found on the island is the fatele. While the origins of this form were imported from Tuvalu, it was adapted into what is known as the "acculturated fatele," which eventually replaced older traditional forms. This development was further influenced by the presence of Catholic Christian missionaries, who played a positive role in the growth of music and song on the island.
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Traditional Instrumentation
The rhythmic foundation of Nukunonu's music has been supported by various instruments over the centuries. Drums served as a common accompaniment for a significant period, providing the steady beat necessary for communal dance.
Beyond drums, the island utilized slit gongs (percussive instruments made from hollowed logs). These were in use as early as 1841 and were formally documented by the United States Exploring Expedition in 1843. Later, the Pokihi—mat-covered boxes—emerged as a post-European innovation. These boxes became a staple of fatele music and were still widely observed as late as 1921.
The Social Context of Performance
Music in Nukunonu is not merely an art form but a social event. Performances typically take place during a fiafia, a festival held at the village meeting house. During these gatherings, villagers congregate and organize themselves into music groups based on their faitu, which refers to their village affiliation or "sides/halves."
These performances are characterized by an atmosphere of humor and joy. The festivities continue until the elders of the group decide it is time to conclude the event.
Academic Study of Tokelauan Music
Formal documentation of these traditions began more recently. In the 1980s, Alan Thomas became the first researcher to systematically study the music of Tokelau, culminating in a Master of Arts thesis focused on the fatele in 1986.
Key Facts
- Location: Nukunonu is one of three Tokelau islands (with Atafu and Fakaofo).
- Primary Genre: The acculturated fatele, originally imported from Tuvalu.
- Key Instruments: Drums, slit gongs (noted in 1843), and Pokihi (mat-covered boxes).
- Social Structure: Performances are organized by faitu (village sides/halves).
- Event Type: Music and dance are performed during fiafia (festivals).
| Element | Description | Historical Note |
|---|---|---|
| Fatele | Main music and dance form | Imported from Tuvalu; acculturated over time |
| Slit Gongs | Percussive instrument | Used since 1841; recorded by US expedition in 1843 |
| Pokihi | Mat-covered boxes | Post-European innovation; seen in 1921 |
| Fiafia | Festival/Performance venue | Held at the village meeting house |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fatele in Nukunonu?
The fatele is the dominant music and dance form on the island. Although it was originally imported from Tuvalu, it evolved into an "acculturated" version that replaced older traditional styles.
What are Pokihi?
Pokihi are mat-covered boxes used as musical instruments in fatele music. They are considered a post-European innovation and were documented in use as late as 1921.
How are music groups organized during a fiafia?
Groups are arranged according to their faitu, which are the village affiliations or "sides/halves" of the community.
Who was the first person to academically study Tokelau's music?
Alan Thomas was the first to study the music of Tokelau in the 1980s, submitting a Master of Arts thesis on the fatele in 1986.
What role did missionaries play in the island's music?
Catholic Christian missionaries provided a positive influence that contributed to the development of traditional music and song on the island.