Well-known guitarist Stephen W. Liston died unexpectedly of natural causes in his sleep January 27, 2008 at his home in Mesa, AZ. He lived in Santa Barbara for over 20 years, playing at most major hotels and restaurants, as well as many private parties. His “gig” at The Brown Pelican was one of the longest in the local music scene.

Stephen was born in Baltimore, Md., on August 26, 1957. He received his first guitar at age 12 in Westport, CT. In 1969 he moved to Malaga, Spain with his family and studied with Rafael de Antequera. Returning to the U. S. in l972 he studied with Sal Salvadore, well-known guitarist with the Stan Kenton Orchestra, then attended the Berklee School of Music in Boston. From these beginnings, Stephen developed a unique blend of classical, popular and jazz stylings, arranging many pieces for the guitar. He recorded two albums.

He is survived by his parents, Robert and Jean Liston of Santa Barbara; sisters Cynthia Davidson (Gary) of Alachua, FL, and Felicia Avila (Edward) of Oxnard; and nieces Dr. Chandra Davidson Ramos of Atlanta, GA and Sophia and Gabriella Avila of Oxnard.

Friends of Stephen are invited to leave remembrances on his website www.stephenliston.com and to attend a celebration of his life at his parents home, 222 W. Anapamu St. Apt. 7 from 1 to 4 p.m. on Sunday February 24, 2008.