Paula Fourie

(1985-) Musicologist, choral conductor, author and director.

Biography

South African born, she spent much of her childhood in the USA and Europe, since her parents were in the diplomatic service.

Training

Studied musicology at the University of Pretoria and completed a BMus (cum laude) in 2004 – 2007; an MMus (cum laude) in Musicology in 2008 – 2010 and in addition completed the Associated Board of the Royal School of Music Grade 6 piano performance; Grade 8 vocal performance 2009). Completed a doctorate at the University of Stellenbosch on Taliep Petersen in 2011-2014.

Her writing

Began writing in her youth, and in 2002 won a national short story competition. her poetry (in English and Afrikaans) has appeared in several South Afriican poetry journals.

Her academic writing includes reviews, interviews and journal articles.

Career

Teacher and choral conductor at Glenstantia Primary School (2008) and the Drakensberg Boys Choir School (2009 – 2010)

Her work in theatre

In 2012 she began to work as an assistant with Athol Fugard, and in 2014 she wrote the introductory scene of The Shadow of the Hummingbird, drawing on Fugard's notes over the past 20 years. She also co-directed the play with Athol Fugard.