Teacher of the Year

Mr. Matthew T. Snell has served as Director of Choral Activities at Northwest High School since 2008, where he directs five choirs, produces the annual musical, and advises the Tri-M Music Honor Society. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education from Western Michigan University (2008) and a Master of Music Education from the University of Michigan (2017).

He currently serves as MSVMA Director of State Events, on the Adjudication Committee, and has stepped back into the role of District 8 Manager.

Under Mr. Snell’s leadership, the Northwest High School choirs have consistently earned superior ratings at both district and state festivals. His ensembles have been featured at the ACDA-MI State Conference (2013, 2015, 2019, and 2023) and at the Michigan Music Conference (2015 and 2026). In 2024, Mr. Snell conducted the MSVMA TTBB State Honors Choir, and in 2025, his choir was named MSVMA Outstanding Choir of the Year.

A passionate advocate for student engagement, Mr. Snell teaches approximately 20% of the Northwest student body, with one-third of his singers pursuing private voice lessons. He organizes and leads over 35 unique events annually—averaging one event each week — creating a vibrant and inclusive choral program that encourages growth, confidence, and lifelong musicianship.

A five-time nominee for MSVMA Teacher of the Year, Mr. Snell continues to contribute to the state’s music education community. In the 2025-2026 school year, he organized the MSVMA Adjudication Fast Track Event, District 8’s first Annual TB Day (with over 300 participants), and will host the State Solo & Ensemble Festival (South). His past leadership includes service on the full boards of both the American Choral Directors Association of Michigan and MSVMA, where he has held positions including District 8 Manager and Supervisor of State Choral Festival South.

Mr. Snell finds deep joy in teaching at Northwest High School and remains profoundly grateful for the support of his students, colleagues, and community. He lives in East Lansing with his wife, Jessica Nieuwkoop, and their two children.