Anne Marleen Hissink finds harmony and rhythm on an island getaway.

The rhythmic beating of the djembe drum starts up. It is impossible to stand still. Wrapped in vibrantly coloured sulus (skirts), everyone is swaying, feet softly slapping the ground. The effect of the music and the heat of the lush tropical surrounds are hypnotic.

The drummer begins to sing. We join in on the chorus in four-part harmony.

The performance is part of a nine-day Fijian holiday course run by singer-songwriter and musical director Rachel Hore. The location is Daku Resort, which is set in a coconut plantation on Vanua Levu, the second-largest Fijian island.

Vocalists from all over Australia have arrived to take part in the course. Our choir is an interesting mix of 28 people, including an orthopedic surgeon from Shepparton, a web design teacher from Katoomba, an information technology manager from Canberra and an alpaca farmer from Victoria. Rachel has divided us into groups of sopranos, altos, tenors and basses. Everyone has some experience of singing a cappella although at times we use the guitar, maracas or African djembe as an accompaniment.

The repertoire ranges from songs of the Pacific Islands to popular classics.

We spend the next two days learning the songs and, after lunch on the third day, travel by bus to the village of Vivili; we are going to sing with the local choir. The choir is an important part of Fijian village life and most of the villagers belong to it.

Taking part in group harmonies can have a profound effect on the emotions. It is a powerful tonic that enhances relaxation and promotes a feeling of wellbeing. I am unexpectedly moved when we perform.

The villagers in return sing traditional Fijian songs. There is genuine surprise among the villagers at our collective talent; the afternoon is a success and we are invited back for a repeat performance.

The singing workshop runs every morning and in the afternoons we are free to hike, kayak, snorkel, go on a boat ride or play tennis or golf.

The nine days pass at a comfortable, relaxing pace with plenty of time to make strong friendships with the staff and other vocalists.

The final Sunday morning arrives all too soon and it is time for us to take our leave. We are shepherded into the big bure for a ceremony with kava. The entire Daku staff is there to farewell us.

Many tears are shed. In such a short space of time we have formed strong emotional bonds with each other. Everyone has been deeply touched by the welcoming nature of the Fijian culture. The loving care has made this a life-changing experience.