A list of all the Musical activities that Stephen Yates has been involved in would be very extensive indeed. Although primarily a classical guitarist, he is equally at home on Tenor Banjo, on which he performs Irish & Scottish traditional music; 5 String Banjo, on which he performs American traditional music; Steel String Guitar, which he employs in a highly original duet with his brother Howard (himself a virtuoso 5 String Banjo Player). Add to this the Electric Guitar where Stephen has found time to record two albums and tour internationally as Lead Guitarist with a professional Rock Band.

He began playing at the age of 13 and was soon receiving formal tuition under David Stanley of Exeter. He then went on to study in London under Douglas Rogers who was quick to notice what he called the 'Rare Facility & Highly Individual Approach' in Stephen Yates' playing.

In 1989 he won 1st prize in the 'Vicente Sanchis Guitar Challenge' sponsored by 'Guitar International' magazine, and has since then been busy performing and teaching.

He also enjoys composing, as well as exploring new areas of technique and developing more effective (and occasionally somewhat unusual) methods of practising.

In December 1997 'Guitarist' Magazine voted Stephen Yates 'Acoustic Guitarist of The Year'.

 John Gates