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In the ever-evolving world of music and culture, Dr Pauline Muir’s work centres on the complex interconnections and politics between faith, race and the global Christian music industry.
Her journey is more than just academia; it's a story of passion, purpose and a profound connection to the music she loves.
Currently Pauline is working as a co-editor on a pioneering academic publication entitled ‘Black British Gospel Music – From the Windrush Generation to Black Lives Matter.’
This remarkable book is poised to be the first of its kind, exploring the under researched genre through the lens of academics and gospel music practitioners.
Let's delve into her extraordinary career, from her classical music beginnings to her influential role in Black British Gospel.
Pauline Muir - The Early Days
Awakening in Classical Music
Like many children of Windrush parents, Pauline was sent to classical piano lessons from an early age.
This progressed to studying for an undergraduate degree in classical music. The lack of racial diversity in the classical music world was very evident in those early days.
There were very few individuals who looked like her in that sphere, and no attention given to non-European material in the curriculum. This realisation ignited the first spark of her academic journey.
The 80s: A Shift Towards the Arts
Following graduation, with unfulfilled aspirations to become a classical double bass player, Pauline landed a role in music education in the informal sector.
Climbing the Ranks: From Tutor to Deputy Director
As a tutor, she gradually worked her way through the ranks to undertake roles in management, funding, marketing, finance and education.
The Birth of an Arts Manager
During her tenure in this employ, Pauline stumbled upon the term "Arts Management", unaware that this was the role that she engaged.
Feeling the need to better understand her job, she went onto to study a Masters’ Degree in Arts Management.
Here again the academic curriculum demonstrated little recognition of a Black contribution.
Pauline was disappointed that the Black British gospel music scene that she loved and had grown up with in the 70s and 80s was largely invisible from the creative and cultural frameworks in the UK.
It was for this reason that Pauline decided to undertake a Doctorate exploring the role of music in Black Majority Church (BMCs) settings.
Black British Gospel: An Exploration
Pauline’s research unveils the dynamic exchange between music in BMCs and the global Christian music industry.
She highlights that although Black Pentecostal Churches are amongst the fastest growing environments, songwriters from these traditions are not represented in the global Christian music industry.
Exploring Black Identitybeyond the music, Pauline delves into themes of identity and belonging.
Her research explores the African diasporic connections and complexities within the global Gospel music landscape, shedding light on the rich tapestry of Black culture in Britain.
Transatlantic Connections
British-American GospelPauline also reveals the intricate relationship between British and American Gospel music, examining how sound and music industries have shaped the Gospel music scene in the UK.
This transatlantic exchange has enriched the genre's diversity.
The Sacred and the Spectacular in Gospel Performances
Lastly, her research captures the captivating interplay of the sacred and secular within Gospel music performances. She shows how Gospel artists seamlessly navigate between spirituality and entertainment, delivering a unique and mesmerising experience to their audiences.
Conclusion
Pauline's journey is a testament to the power of passion, purpose,and resilience.
From her classical music beginnings to her influential role in promoting Black British Gospel and the arts, she has not only carved a niche for herself but is also committed to building practitioner and academic and networks focused on Black British Gospel music.
Her story serves as a reminder that pursuing one's passion can lead to transformative change and a lasting impact on culture and society.
As a pioneer in arts management and Black British Gospel, Dr. Muir hopes to shape the future of music and cultural diversity in the United Kingdom.
A huge thank you to Pauline for finding time in her busy schedule to sit down with us. Her book "Black British Gospel Music – From the Windrush Generation to Black Lives Matter" will be released in May 2024 and is available for pre-order now.
You can keep up-to-date with Pauline on X (formerly Twitter) where she's @PaulineMuir
If this insight into Pauline and her work has given you some entertainment, please consider buying me a virtual coffee to show your appreciation. It's au-lait a couple of quid ;-)
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