Stephen Robinson is a renowned classical guitarist and professor of music at Stetson University in DeLand, Florida. He was born on August 22, 1957, in New York City, and grew up in a family of musicians. His father was a jazz pianist, and his mother was a classical pianist. Robinson began playing the guitar at the age of nine and quickly showed a natural talent for the instrument. Robinson's early musical education was primarily self-taught, but he also received guidance from his mother and other musicians in his family. He attended the Manhattan School of Music, where he studied with the renowned guitarist Manuel Barrueco. Robinson also studied with the guitarist Sharon Isbin at the Aspen Music Festival and School. In 1980, Robinson won first prize in the Guitar Foundation of America International Solo Competition, which launched his career as a professional musician. He has since performed extensively throughout the United States and abroad, including in Europe, Asia, and South America. Robinson has also recorded several albums, including "The Romantic Guitar" and "The Spanish Guitar." Robinson is known for his virtuosic playing and his ability to interpret a wide range of musical styles. He has performed works by classical composers such as Bach, Beethoven, and Mozart, as well as contemporary composers such as Leo Brouwer and John Duarte. Robinson is also an advocate for new music and has premiered works by several contemporary composers. In addition to his performing career, Robinson is a respected educator. He has been a professor of music at Stetson University since 1986 and has also taught at the Aspen Music Festival and School, the University of Miami, and the University of South Carolina. Robinson is known for his innovative teaching methods and his ability to inspire his students to achieve their full potential. Robinson has received numerous awards and honors throughout his career. In addition to his win at the Guitar Foundation of America International Solo Competition, he has also won first prize in the American String Teachers Association National Solo Competition and the Music Teachers National Association National Guitar Competition. Robinson has also been awarded the Florida Music Teachers Association's Outstanding Collegiate Teacher Award and the Stetson University Hand Award for Excellence in Research and Creative Activity. Robinson's contributions to the world of classical guitar have been significant. He has inspired countless musicians and has helped to elevate the guitar to a respected position in the world of classical music. His performances and recordings have brought the beauty and complexity of the guitar to a wider audience, and his teaching has helped to shape the next generation of guitarists. In conclusion, Stephen Robinson is a highly accomplished classical guitarist and educator who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. His virtuosic playing, innovative teaching methods, and advocacy for new music have earned him numerous awards and honors throughout his career. Robinson's legacy as a musician and educator will continue to inspire and influence generations of musicians to come.

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