Musical Journey
Embark on a musical pathway with Jennifer West, a talented Mezzo-Soprano and vocal instructor, as she shares her musical talent and artistry with you!
Jennifer West is a dedicated Mezzo-Soprano and vocal instructor with experience helping singers develop confidence, technique, and a love for music. She has worked with students of all ages to build their vocal technique, musicality, and stage presence. Currently completing her Bachelor of Science in Music at North Dakota State University, Jennifer has studied under esteemed vocal professors, participated in masterclasses to refine her artistry, and performed with renowned ensembles such as the NDSU Concert Choir, Madrigal Singers, and the Fargo-Moorhead Choral Artists.
Teaching has always been at the heart of Jennifer’s musical journey. She has served as a private vocal coach, a substitute choral teacher, and a Seminary & Institute Instructor, gaining valuable experience in lesson planning, student engagement, and curriculum development. Her leadership roles in regional women’s ministerial work have further shaped her ability to mentor and inspire others. Whether in the classroom or the studio, she is committed to creating a supportive, encouraging space where students feel empowered to grow as musicians.
While Jennifer loves the lake life with her husband, four sons, and her dog, her true joy is music. She believes that music is not just about skill, but about storytelling and connection. She loves helping students find their unique voices and guiding them toward expressive, confident performances. Her passion for the healing power of music has also led her to pursue further education in music therapy, where she hopes to combine her teaching experience with therapeutic techniques to help individuals through music. With a love of helping others, she is dedicated to making music a joyful and transformative experience.
Experience and Achievements
Education
Bachelor of Science - Music (in progress)
Performance Experience
Honors & Awards
Jennifer is currently pursuing her Bachelor of Science in Music at North Dakota State University, where she studies voice with Dr. Kelly Burns and Dr. Karisa Templeton and participates in master classes with Dr. Tyler Wottrich. Her background also includes two years of study in Music Education and one year in Pre-Dental Hygiene, giving her a well-rounded foundation in both the arts and sciences.
​Driven by a deep belief in music’s ability to heal, she is also pursuing further education in music therapy. Her goal is to blend her background in teaching with therapeutic approaches to support and uplift individuals through the power of music.
Unique Volunteer Experiences
Jennifer has performed with a variety of respected vocal ensembles, including the NDSU Concert Choir under the direction of Dr. Dwight Jilek, as a soloist and member of the NDSU Madrigal Singer under Dr. Michael Weber, and the Fargo Moorhead Choral Artists directed by Dr. Michael Culloton, where she was also featured as a soloist. Her past experience includes singing with the Brigham Young University Concert Choir and Women’s Chorus. These diverse experiences have helped shape her into a well-rounded and expressive performer.
Jennifer has received several honors during her time at NDSU, including receiving the Challey School of Music Scholarship for the 2025–2026 academic year, and qualifying for the NDSU Honor Society in 2024 and 2025. She has also consistently earned high marks in her juried semester performances, demonstrating her commitment to excellence and growth as a musician. She looks forward to finishing up her degree in the spring of 2026 with plans to graduate at the top of her class.
In addition to her background in music, Jennifer brings a rich blend of teaching, leadership, and organizational experience to her work as a vocal coach. As a Seminary & Institute Instructor, she gained hands-on experience designing and delivering daily lessons to high school students, strengthening her ability to engage and inspire diverse learners. Her work as a Management Consultant further developed her communication, teamwork, and organizational skills—key assets when collaborating with students, parents, and school administrators. She also served in a tri-state regional women’s ministerial leadership role, where she trained and mentored leadership councils, developed curriculum, and supported individuals in their personal growth. These experiences have helped shape her teaching philosophy—one that values clarity, compassion, and a supportive learning environment where every student can thrive.