Mr. Steven J. Kunka
Director of Bands
Department Chair, Fine and Performing Arts

A native of Whitehouse Station, NJ, Mr. Kunka has been the Director of Bands at James River High School in Midlothian, VA, since the fall of 2021. At James River, he directs the Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Jazz Band, and the award-winning REGIMENT Marching Band. James River boasts a robust indoor ensemble program, consisting of three indoor colorguards and an indoor drumline. In addition to his role as Director of Bands, Mr. Kunka currently serves as the Department Chair for the Fine and Performing Arts at JRHS.

Under his leadership, the band program has earned the prestigious title of Virginia State "Honor Band" for the past three years, achieving Superior ratings at both marching and concert assessments. James River High School has been recognized as a Virginia State “Honor Band” 24 times.

Mr. Kunka is also a composer, creating music for both marching band and concert ensembles. His original compositions have played a significant role in the success of the REGIMENT Marching Band. The concert bands at James River have performed several of his marches at VBODA Concert Assessments.

Prior to joining James River, Mr. Kunka spent five years teaching at Thomas Dale High School, where he taught Symphonic Band, Piano Lab, Guitar, Technology Assisted Music, and chartered the first-ever "Tech Music 2" class in CCPS. He began his career at Hampton High School in Hampton, VA, where he taught for two years, directing the Symphonic Band, Concert Band, and Marching Band.

Mr. Kunka is a graduate of James Madison University, where he studied percussion under the guidance of Professor C. William Rice and Dr. Michael Overman. While at JMU, he participated with Virginia’s Finest, the Marching Royal Dukes, and was a member of the Wind Symphony, Brass Band, Symphonic Band, Concert Band, and Percussion Ensemble. His education and passion for music have shaped his approach to teaching, as he is dedicated to helping his students achieve excellence, both in performance and character. His commitment to fostering a positive, inclusive musical environment has earned him recognition as a respected educator and mentor in both the school and local community.

In his free time, Mr. Kunka enjoys boating with his family, working on vintage BMWs, riding motorcycles, and most recently, building model railroads. He lives in Bon Air with his wife, Elizabeth, their two children, Lucy and James, and their chocolate lab, Madison.

Please email Mr. Kunka with any questions: steven_kunka@ccpsnet.net