Name: Ken Cubala

College: Columbia College

Major: Music Theory/Composition & Audio Production

At The Music Room since:  2010

First piece of music that had a profound effect on me: There have been many pieces of music that had profound effects on me. I'll describe one particular example. When I was younger, I was all about "cranking up the hi-fi." In fact, most of the neighborhood kids were too. We'd get together on our porches and entertain as many people within hearing distance as we could. Of course, our parents would tell us to turn it down. Home stereos and portable "boom boxes" were articles of status. You were a cool kid if you had access to them (even if they really belonged to your parents).
My father let me use his radio/8-track player on the porch. The 8-track was broken. It wasn't really a big portable unit, but, I was younger, and it was plenty. I'd hang out, sometimes alone, and listen to various radio stations. At the time, "Eye Of The Tiger" by Survivor was quite popular. I remember the feeling of hearing it and wishing it wouldn't end. then scouring the stations looking for it so I could hear it again. I eventually scored the 45 record, then the full LP, to which I have to this day.

Music teacher who inspired me the most: There have been a few, but, back in college, a music theory teacher named Dr. Athanasios Zervas was significant. He was from Greece and was difficult to understand at times. Though he was tough as necessary, he had a light-hearted way about him and an understandable sense of humor. The way he was, not only as a teacher, but as an artist was inspiring to me. He exhibited authority, humility, and an unshakeable enthusiasm. Unfortunately, with regard to his superiors, it seemed that he was somewhat "singled out" as being unconventional and experimental as a composer and performer, and didn't quite "fit in" to the faculty lifestyle of the music department. But in a way, that only added to the respect we as students had for him. I was somber to find that his and a few other teacher's contracts were not to be renewed for the next half of my tenure there.

Favorite quote about music:  "If it sounds good, it is good." ~ Duke Ellington

My best gig:  I've played various open mics with musicians and bands I was involved with. Though I'm certainly knowledgeable about performance, I'm not currently active in it. My focus seems to be on everything else in the biz. But, I'm excited about a collaborative project I have in the works. Anyway, a few years ago, a friend I was performing a couple of tunes with could see I was nervous (which is natural) and doubtful in ways. He took me outside and gave me a talk. It consisted of taking a lighter and using it's flame as a metaphor for ambition and success. I don't even remember his exact words, but, they had a memorable impact on me.

Favorite classical piece:  Symphony No.9 by Antonin Dvorak

Favorite rock band:  Too many to name only one. However, I'll say: Rush

Favorite jazz artist:  To many to name only one. However, I'll say: Stan Kenton

Favorite singer: Too many to name only one. However, I'll say:  Neko Case

How I am making the world a better place: Starting with my students, I seek to instill belief of themselves and their dreams. I'm also very passionately involved with rallying for causes that involve freedom from oppression, the environment, and human/animal rights.

My email address:

• kcubala@the-music-room.net