Looking for the accurate Iya Ni Wura Iyebiye tonic solfa? You’re in the right place. This guide gives you the full tonic solfa notation, the complete lyrics, and simple tips to help you sing, teach, or play this beautiful Yoruba classic with confidence.
Iya Ni Wura Song
The song Iya Ni Wura is one of Nigeria’s most beloved folk songs, often sung in schools, churches, and cultural events. It celebrates the irreplaceable value of mothers and is commonly used in music education, particularly for learning tonic solfa and voice training in basic music classes.
This blog post presents the Iya Ni Wura lyrics, the Iya Ni Wura tonic solfa, and a breakdown of the Yoruba phrases used in the song. The repetition of the phrase “Iya ni wura iyebiye” (Mother is a priceless gold) forms the heart of the message.
Background of Iya Ni Wura Iyebiye
“Iya Ni Wura” is a popular Yoruba folk song from Nigeria. The title means “Mother is Gold”, and the song is often used to celebrate mothers and express gratitude for their unconditional love.
It is one of the most well-known traditional Yoruba songs taught in Nigerian schools, usually during:
- Music lessons
- Cultural day celebrations
- Mother’s Day performances
Though the exact composer of “Iya Ni Wura” is unknown, the song has been passed down for generations as part of oral tradition—meaning it was learned by ear, not from a written score. This is common with African folk music, especially songs that carry deep moral lessons.
What Makes the Song Special?
- Simple, clear message – It teaches children to respect and value their mothers.
- Short and easy to sing – That’s why schools love to use it.
- Emotional meaning – The lyrics remind us that no amount of money can buy a mother’s worth.
- Cultural pride – It’s sung in Yoruba, helping preserve Nigerian languages and traditions.
Iya Ni Wura Iyebiye Lyrics
Verse 1
O loyun mi fosu mesan
(She carried me in her womb for nine months)
O po mi f’odun meta, ahh
(She carried me on her back for three years)
Chorus
Iya ni wura, iye biye (iye biye)
(Mother is gold, she is precious) (so precious)
Ti a ko le f′owo ra
(That no one can buy with money)
Verse 2
Lati owuro titi d’ale
(From morning until night)
O fa adura bo mi oo
(She covers me with her prayers)
Outro
Iya mo ki o ku ise o (iye biye)
(Mother, I greet you for your hard work (so precious))
Iya ku itoju mi
(Mother, thank you for taking care of me)
Iya ni wura, iye biye
(Mother is gold, she is precious)
Ti a ko le f′owo ra
(That no one can buy with money)
Iya ni wura, iye biye
(Mother is gold, she is precious)
Ti a ko le f′owo ra
(That no one can buy with money)
Iya Ni Wura Iyebiye tonic solfa
Now let’s look at the Iya Ni Wura tonic solfa. If you’re learning to sing in solfa or teaching kids how to follow melody, this version in C major (doh = C) is perfect.
Line 1
I – ya ni wu – ra
sI d r m sI
sI stands for lower octave “s“.
Line 2
I – ye bi – ye
d tI d lI
tI stands for lower octave “t“.
lI stands for lower octave “l“
Line 3
Ti a – ko le fo wo ra
tI d r d m r d
tI stands for lower octave “t“.
Line 4
O lo – yun mi
m m f m
Line 4
Fo – su me – san
r d lI d
lI stands for lower octave “l“.
Line 5
O pon mi
r r m
Line 5
Fo – dun me – ta
r d lI sI lI tI
sI stands for lower octave “s“.
lI stands for lower octave “l“.
tI stands for lower octave “t“.
Line 6
I – ya mo ki o
sI d r m sI
sI stands for lower octave “s“.
Line 7
Ku i – se o
d tI d lI
tI stands for lower octave “t“.
lI stands for lower octave “l“
Line 8
I – ya ku i – to – ju mi
tI d r d m r d
tI stands for lower octave “t“.
Downloadable PDF
Want a printable Iya Ni Wura Tonic Solfa sheet ? Click below to download it and practice anytime:
Iya Ni Wura Iyebiye Tonic Solfa Video
Want to try out more tonic solfa to boost your confidence. Check out the lessons below:
- Nigeria We Hail Thee Yoruba
- Nigeria We Hail Thee Tonic Solfa
- Jesus Loves Me Tonic Solfa
- Row Row Row Your Boat Tonic Solfa
- Mary Had a Little Lamb Tonic Solfa
- Trust and Obey Tonic Solfa
- Great Is Thy Faithfulness Tonic Solfa
- Practical Way to Master Tonic Solfa for Beginners
- How to Find the Tonic Solfa of Any Song
- 10 Ear Training Techniques For Musicians
FAQs
What does “Iya Ni Wura” mean?
It means “Mother is Gold” in Yoruba.
Who composed Iya Ni Wura?
It’s a traditional folk song. The composer is unknown.
Is “Iya Ni Wura” suitable for kids?
Yes! It’s often taught in primary schools for cultural and moral education.
Can I teach this song with solfa notation?
Absolutely. The solfa provided is perfect for beginners and intermediate learners.
Final Thought
“Iya Ni Wura” reminds us that mothers are priceless treasures. No amount of money can replace the love, sacrifice, and care they give. From carrying us before birth to praying for us every day, mothers shape our lives in powerful ways. This song is more than just music — it’s a celebration of motherhood, respect, and deep gratitude.
Let it inspire you to honor the mothers around you, not just on special days, but every day.
