Jennifer Gerth

Jennifer Gerth is an Adjunct Professor of Clarinet in the Department of Music, Film & Creative Enterprise at the University of St. Thomas, where she has been teaching since 2000. She also serves as Adjunct Faculty at the University of Minnesota. A professional clarinetist, Gerth holds principal clarinet positions with the Duluth-Superior Symphony Orchestra (24 seasons) and has been a substitute member of the Minnesota Orchestra since 1995. She collaborates with ensembles such as the Minnesota Opera, VocalEssence, Northrup Ballet, Minnesota Dance Theater, and Mill City Opera. Gerth has extensive teaching experience, spanning 30 years at the collegiate level, previously teaching at institutions like the College of St. Benedict, St. Olaf College, St. Cloud State University, Augsburg College, and Gustavus Adolphus College.

Education:

• Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) in Clarinet Performance, University of Minnesota
• Master of Music (MM) in Clarinet Performance, Northwestern University
• Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Mathematics and Music, St. Olaf College

Research & Interests: Gerth's expertise focuses on performance anxiety, the ergonomics of instruments and accessories, and wellness in music performance. She actively promotes holistic approaches to musicians' physical and mental well-being, particularly through her work on optimizing instrument use and reducing performance-related stress. Her passion for chamber music has led to collaborative initiatives, including co-founding The Prospect Park Players (with a 7-year residency at Hamline University) and participating in the Festival of the Lakes Chamber Music Festival for two decades. Gerth also served as a teacher and faculty soloist at the Birch Creek Summer Performance Center for 15 years.

Current Courses: In 2025, she teaches performance studies and clarinet electives at the University of St. Thomas, including GMUS 578 (Performance Study: Clarinet) and MUSP 138/238 (Clarinet: Elective/Performance).

Labs & Teams: Gerth is affiliated with multiple performing groups, including the Duluth-Superior Symphony Orchestra, Minnesota Orchestra, Minnesota Opera, and Festival of the Lakes. She co-founded The Prospect Park Players and remains active in chamber music collaborations.