Stephen W. Liston

Well known guitarist, Stephen W. Liston, died unexpectedly of natural causes in his sleep January 27, 2008 at his home in Mesa, Arizona. He lived in Santa Barbara for over 20 years before moving to Phoenix, Arizona in 1993. While in Santa Barbara he performed at most of the major hotels and restaurants. Stephen's engagement at the Brown Pelican was on of the longest in the Santa Barbara area ever.

Stephen was born in Baltimore, Maryland, August 26, 1957.He received his first guitar when he was 12. In 1969 Stephen and his family moved to Malaga, Spain. There he studied with Rafael de Antequera. Returning to the United States in 1972, Stephen studied with Sal Salvadore, a well known guitarist with the Stan Kenton Orchestra. Stephen followed up with his music studies at the Berklee School of Music in Boston. From these beginnings Stephen developed a unique blend of classical, popular and jazz stylings and arranged many scores for guitar.

During his career he recorded two classical albums.

Stephen's performing career in Phoenix included private functions as well as public venue engagements. Samples of his music are available from his Website www.StephenListon.com. Stephen was also an accomplished guitar instructor with students of all ages.

Stephen is survived by his parents, Robert and Jean Liston of Santa Barbara. He is also survived by his sisters, Cynthia Davidson (Gary) of Alachua, Florida, and Felicia Avila (Edward) of Oxnard, California.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Stephen Liston Music Scholarship at Wells Fargo Bank.
Routing # 122105278. For Account #5306159749.

Friends and students of Stephen are invited to leave comments and remembrances on his Website www.StephenListon.com
A special "Tribute To Stephen" is being held at the Duck & Decanter Restaurant at 1651 E. Camelback Rd., Phoenix AZ from noon to 2:00 PM Sunday, February 17th. Friends and students of Stephen are invited.